Abstract: A system for distributed file storage includes a plurality of servers providing, to a plurality of clients, file access services for accessing files stored on the plurality of servers. A list of neighbor servers is maintained by each server. The neighbor servers are a subset of the plurality of servers. At least one server of the plurality of servers is switched into a neighbor group of servers based on network distance. Each file is stored in the form of a plurality of N pieces on N servers, the pieces being generated from the file. The list is used to obtain information for reconstructing files stored on the neighbor servers, such that any K out of the N pieces can be used to reconstruct any file.

Abstract: A computer cluster for providing hosting services includes a plurality of nodes, and a control center coordinating activity of the nodes. Each node includes a plurality of virtual environments such that each virtual environment responds to user requests and appears to the user as having its own operating system. Multiple virtual environments running on the same node share the same host operating system of the node.

Abstract: A common template file system tree is utilized by isolated operating system processes groups for effective read-only common file set access via multiple file system paths. Files are opened from different views of the file system template for write-ability access and copied into a private modification area; this is also convenient for subsequent online changes and replication.

Abstract: Method of efficient utilization of a single hardware system with single operating system kernel wherein a virtual environment, functionally equivalent to a full-featured operating system box, is provided to an end user without emulation of hardware, dedicated physical memory or another hardware resource. Such method is realized by separation of user processes on the level of namespace and on the basis of restrictions implemented inside the operating system kernel. Each virtual environment is invisible to other virtual environments within the system and has a completely independent root file system.

Abstract: The present invention is a system and method for utilization of computer clusters with automatic configuration and virtual environments integrated with a distributed file system as a hosting service providing platform. The virtual environment of the present invention emulates no hardware and is essentially a personal protected machine with an independent operating system that functions as a separate workstation or server.

Abstract: A common template file system tree is utilized by isolated operating system processes groups for effective read-only common file set access via multiple file system paths. Files are opened from different views of the file system template for write-ability access and copied into a private modification area; this is also convenient for subsequent online changes and replication.

Abstract: The present invention is a system and method for distributed, highly scalable, wide area peer-to-peer network data storage. The functionally equivalent servers in the system are divided into groups. Each server maintains a dynamic list which is polled to determine the availability of the closest neighbor servers. Each server is switched between the groups of servers to optimize network connectivity parameters. Data and directory files are divided into a plurality of pieces which are stored on different servers. Files are uniformly and independently named, utilizing a tree with a common root, logical pathways, and unique file identifiers. When a server receives a client request for file system access, the plurality of file pieces are collected and sent to the client server from the neighbor servers simultaneously in order to optimize bandwidth. Servers with maximum throughput capacity are utilized for highest transmission speed and reduced processing time.

Abstract: The present invention is a system and method for utilization of computer clusters with automatic configuration and virtual environments integrated with a distributed file system as a hosting service providing platform. The virtual environment of the present invention emulates no hardware and is essentially a personal protected machine with an independent operating system that functions as a separate workstation or server.

Abstract: Method of efficient utilization of a single hardware system with single operating system kernel wherein a virtual environment, functionally equivalent to a full-featured operating system box, is provided to an end user without emulation of hardware, dedicated physical memory or another hardware resource. Such method is realized by separation of user processes on the level of namespace and on the basis of restrictions implemented inside the operating system kernel. Each virtual environment is invisible to other virtual environments within the system and has a completely independent root file system.