SELF-CONFIGURING SERVER AND SERVER NETWORK

A self-configuring server system is disclosed. In this system, a plurality of nodes are linked together in a primary loop. Each node includes an external communication interface coupled to the loop, a command module for controlling the node and an internal interface. The internal interface, for each node, is in turn coupled to an internal loop associated with that node, the internal loop defining operation of that node. Messages and data circulate around the primary loop until reaching an appropriate node, where the message or data is acted upon. In some instances the messages or data is client-related, and in other instances the messages or data provide for dynamic reconfiguration of the system. In yet other instances, the messages or data is transmitted from one or more nodes in order to provide operational data about the node/nodes to a plurality of system controllers. Components in the loop also may receive information from components not in the loop but associated with the system, such as virile entities, that are used for monitoring and control.