This invention generally relates to one or more computer networks having computers like personal computers or network servers with microprocessors linked by
broadband transmission means and having hardware,
software,
firmware, and other means such that at least one
parallel processing operation occurs that involve at least two computers in the network. More particularly, this invention relates to one or more
large networks composed of smaller networks and large numbers of computers connected, like
the Internet, wherein more than one separate
parallel processing operation involving more than one different set of computers occurs simultaneously and wherein ongoing
processing linkages can be established between virtually any microprocessors of separate computers connected to the network. Still more particularly, this invention relates to business arrangements enabling the shared used of network microprocessors for parallel and other
processing, wherein
personal computer owners provide
microprocessor processing power to a network, preferably for
parallel processing, in exchange for network linkage to other personal and other computers supplied by
network providers, including linkage to other microprocessors for parallel or other processing; the basis of the exchange between owners and providers being whatever terms to which the parties agree, subject to governing laws, regulations, or rules, including
payment from either party to the other based on periodic measurement of net use or provision of processing power.