Abstract: An information processing apparatus coupled to anothfer information processing apparatus through a network and carrying out information processing in response to a predetermined command, the information processing apparatus comprising: capability exchange means for collecting information regarding an operating status from the another information processing apparatus and creating an apparatus information table; and apparatus specifying means for comparing information regarding a resource required to execute a command, with information regarding the operating status in the apparatus information table if the command is issued, and specifying an information processing apparatus capable of executing the command.