# Octopus

> distributed operating system

**Wikidata**: [Q124407831](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q124407831)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/octopus-q124407831

## Summary
Octopus is a distributed operating system designed to operate on multiple systems over a network. It is based on Plan B, another distributed operating system that derives from Plan 9. The project is maintained publicly with its source code available on GitHub and documentation hosted on its official website.

## Key Facts
- **Classification:** Octopus is a distributed operating system.
- **Lineage:** The system is based on Plan B.
- **Architecture:** It is designed to operate on multiple systems connected over a network.
- **Source Code:** The repository is hosted on GitHub at `https://github.com/fjballest/octopus`.
- **Website:** The official project website is `https://lsub.org/octopus/`.
- **Related Systems:** It is closely related to Plan B, which is itself based on Plan 9.

## FAQs
### Q: What type of software is Octopus?
A: Octopus is a distributed operating system. This means it is software designed to manage resources and operate across multiple computer systems via a network, rather than being confined to a single machine.

### Q: What is the technical lineage of Octopus?
A: Octopus is based on Plan B, a distributed operating system. Plan B itself is derived from Plan 9, establishing a clear lineage of distributed computing development.

### Q: Where can the source code for Octopus be found?
A: The source code for Octopus is publicly available in its repository on GitHub. The official project website also provides further resources and information.

## Why It Matters
Octopus serves as a significant entry in the evolution of distributed operating systems, representing a continuation of the architectural philosophies established by Plan 9 and Plan B. In the landscape of operating system design, the transition from centralized to distributed computing is a complex challenge that requires innovative approaches to resource management and network transparency. By basing itself on Plan B, Octopus inherits a design methodology focused on treating the network as a unified system rather than a collection of isolated nodes.

This project matters to researchers and developers interested in system architecture because it provides a working implementation of these concepts. It demonstrates how operating systems can be structured to function seamlessly across multiple hardware units. The public availability of its source code on GitHub allows for academic study and potential further development, making it a practical resource for understanding distributed systems. Ultimately, Octopus exemplifies the ongoing effort to build more robust, scalable, and integrated computing environments.

## Notable For
- **Distributed Architecture:** Specifically designed to function across multiple systems over a network.
- **Lineage:** Being a successor to Plan B and part of the broader Plan 9 family tree.
- **Open Source Availability:** The source code is accessible to the public via GitHub.
- **Network Integration:** Its core design philosophy prioritizes network-wide operation over single-machine functionality.

## Body
### System Definition and Class
Octopus is identified as a **distributed operating system**. Unlike traditional operating systems that manage hardware and software on a single computer, a distributed operating system creates a unified environment that spans multiple networked computers. This allows for resource sharing and processing distribution across different physical machines.

### Technical Lineage and Foundations
The architecture of Octopus is directly **based on Plan B**. Plan B is a related distributed operating system that was itself derived from Plan 9 from Bell Labs. This lineage places Octopus within a specific family of operating systems known for their unique approach to file systems and namespace manipulation.

### Availability and Resources
The project maintains a digital presence through several key channels:
- **Website:** The official site is hosted at `https://lsub.org/octopus/`, providing documentation and project information in English.
- **Source Code:** The codebase is maintained in a Git repository hosted on GitHub at `https://github.com/fjballest/octopus`. This allows for version control and public access to the system's implementation.

### Operational Context
The primary defining characteristic of the Octopus system is its ability to **operate on multiple systems over a network**. This classification distinguishes it from standard operating systems by emphasizing its capability to manage a collective of hardware resources as a single, coherent interface for the user.