Role-based message addressing for a computer network

Various embodiments of a system and method related to location-independent message addressing for a computer network are disclosed. According to one embodiment, a plurality of nodes, e.g., computer systems, may be connected to a network. The plurality of nodes may include a first node which is operable to send a message addressed using a "role". The role may be associated with one or more other nodes coupled to the network. The message may be sent to each of the one or more nodes with which the role is associated without specifying locations of the one or more nodes. For example, the role may have an associated name, and the message may be addressed using the role name.