Feasibility study of networks. Final report. [Feasibility of resource sharing via general-purpose computer networks]

From July, 1974, to December, 1979, the Laboratory for Nuclear Service (LNS) conducted a study of the feasibility of resource sharing via general - purpose computer networks. Originally, the study focused on methods of implementing an ARPAnet connection for LNS in collaboration with the MIT Information Processing Center (IPC). When it appeared that the most feasible solution for LNS was to access the ARPANET via the MIT Multics system, the investigation expanded to a consideration of the implementation of computer resource sharing via networks. Experiments were performed at various ERDA installations on the ARPANET in using the networks for offloading large calcuations and obtaining access to unique hardware and software. Performance statistics were collected and cost comparisons, made. Both the benefits and barriers of networking were analyzed. The value of electronic mail, teleconferencing, and other forms of computer-aided communication was also investigated. The study demonstrated that resource sharing via networks can provide small computer installations access to computer facilities not available on site. However, it is not adequate substitute for an on-site computer. There must be enough computing power locally to service the average load. Certain types of computations are not effectively done on the network. Use of the network is most feasible for access to powerful processors and large memories or to unique hardware such as a vector processor. Certain barriers, both technical and nontechnical, must be overcome before computer resource sharing via networks will become widespread. Expanded use of current message and teleconferencing systems should be encouraged within the DOE community