Using logical rings to solve the distributed mutual exclusion problem with fault tolerance issues

In this paper, we investigate distributed mutual exclusion algorithms and delineate the features of a new distributed mutual exclusion algorithm. The basis of the algorithm is the logical ring structure employed in token-based mutual exclusion algorithms. Specifically, there exists dynamic properties of the logical ring that, given certain restrictions regarding message traffic flow, passively give useful information about the location of the token. Effectively, the algorithm demonstrates a type of 'intelligent routing' that identifies useful shortcuts in the routing of the token. The result is a reduction in the total number of messages exchanged prior to the execution of the critical section as compared to the algorithm proposed by Fu and Tzeng [3]. Furthermore, the algorithm allows for an increased degree of fairness in a lightly loaded system than that allowed by Fu and Tzeng's algorithm. The paper also addresses failure recovery issues. © 2000 Kluwer Academic Publishers.