What is the primary concept behind distributed computing?

The primary concept behind distributed computing is that components on networked computers communicate to achieve a common goal. This framework allows for multiple computer systems to work together on a task, leveraging their combined resources and capabilities. In distributed computing, tasks and processes are divided among different machines that may be geographically separated but connected through a network. This configuration enhances performance, scalability, and reliability since it can distribute workloads efficiently and recover from failures by reallocating tasks as needed.

While individual systems operating independently might seem relevant, it does not capture the interconnected nature of distributed computing, which specifically relies on collaboration between machines. Storing data in a centralized location and running programs exclusively on mainframe computers contradict the decentralized approach of distributed computing, where resources and data may be spread across multiple locations and systems, promoting flexibility and responsiveness within the networked environment.