This is interesting. Essentially a reference piece of software where anyone on the network can run the exact same bits (assuming they have compatible hardware).

This is interesting. Essentially a reference piece of software where anyone on the network can run the exact same bits (assuming they have compatible hardware). But also the ability to extend or compose where the new system will also have a reference identity. This may have use in defining standards. You could have a standards authority without any actual standards body. Free but standard.