I am fairly experienced with Python (I also use wxPython a lot), and I have a fair amount of experience with TCP/IP in terms of mechanics and troubleshooting. I have almost no experience in network programming.

I am working on a computer graphics application (Python/C++ hybrid) which demands a lot of CPU time. I am in the planning stages of converting it to distribute the work over many computers on the same local network (although I would eventually like to expand that as well).

There will be a main computer which checks to see who is available to participate. That main computer will also be helping with the processing load. After that, it is basically all computers sending out either requests for information or sending data in response to a request (data can also be sent unsolicited).

So I guess my question is--is Twisted more than what I need?

Of course it is, and all for the better. At the same time, it's *exactly* what you need. :-)

I am sure it will do the job. I have read quite a bit of material on the web site already.

And you are probably right.

But would it be faster and easier to just code this by hand

It most probably wouldn't, since you state not having much experience in network programming.

or to use some other network programming framework/development tool?

None there I know of, in the Python world, and maybe elsewhere too. Perspective Broker alone is a dream come true, for distributed applications. -- Nicola Larosa - nico@tekNico.net Like, we have all we need to make the world a better place for everyone, and yet here we are, screwing up, day after day. Too slow. Let's pick up the pace here, shall we? -- Kirby Urner, December 2004