ADAPTIVE DISTRIBUTED SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR FAULT TOLERANCE

An adaptive distributed system and method for fault tolerance. The system is comprised of a network including N nodes, where N is an integer greater than or equal to 3 and each node is able to execute an algorithm in communication with the network. Each of the N nodes is in communication with at least one other node by way of the network. In addition, each node has a device for testing whether a node is in a desired state or an undesired state and for choosing which node to test based on given circumstances at a corresponding time. The method comprises the steps of using a tester node to choose and test another node to determine whether the other node is in a desired state or undesired state. Thereafter, if the node being tested is in a desired state, the tester node transmits an activation signal to the tested node to cause same to become the next tester node. These steps are then repeated on at least one other node at another predetermined location until a processor in a desired state is tested.