1. A hierarchical computer architecture comprising: a master computer and an array of node computers; wherein the master computer is connected to a plurality of node computers, the master computer being connected to each node computer by a separate communication channel such that only the master computer has direct access to any node computer via the communication channel; each of the plurality of node computers having a memory segment that is either accessible by the node computer or alternatively by the master computer; the choice of exclusive access to the memory segment by either the master computer or the node computer being determined by the master computer using the communication channel between the master computer and the node computer; wherein the plurality of node computers act as servers with a common client being the master computer; both the master computer and the plurality of node computers sharing the same enclosure.