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Process vs Threads

Process vs Threads in Operating Systems

Process vs Threads in Operating Systems

Operating System Course Article

Introduction

An operating system is responsible for managing system resources and ensuring that multiple programs run efficiently at the same time. Modern systems perform multitasking by executing several activities concurrently. To achieve this, operating systems rely on two fundamental execution units: processes and threads.

Although both represent executing tasks, processes and threads differ in memory usage, execution speed, communication methods, and reliability. Understanding these differences is essential for learning CPU scheduling, concurrency, and parallelism.

What is a Process?

A process is a program that is currently under execution. When a program is loaded into memory and begins running, it becomes a process. Each process operates independently and has its own execution environment.

Examples of Processes

Action Result
Opening a web browser A new process is created
Running a Python script A process is started
Executing a C program A separate process is formed

Components of a Process

Component Description
Program Counter Stores the address of the next instruction
Registers Hold temporary CPU data
Stack Stores function calls and local variables
Heap Used for dynamic memory allocation
Code Segment Contains executable instructions
Data Segment Stores global and static variables

What is a Thread?

A thread is the smallest unit of execution within a process. While a process provides the execution environment, threads represent the actual execution paths. A single process can contain multiple threads.

Multithreading Example

Thread Task
Thread 1 Loading webpage
Thread 2 User interaction handling
Thread 3 Media playback

Thread Components

Shared Resources Private Resources
Code, Data, Heap, Open Files Program Counter, Registers, Stack

Process vs Threads Comparison

Feature Process Thread
Execution Unit Heavyweight Lightweight
Memory Space Separate Shared
Creation Time Slow Fast
Context Switching Expensive Cheaper
Communication IPC required Shared memory
Security High Lower

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages of Processes

  • High security and isolation
  • Stable execution
  • Crash isolation

Advantages of Threads

  • Fast execution
  • Efficient CPU utilization
  • Easy communication

Conclusion

Processes and threads are core concepts in operating systems. Processes provide isolation and safety, while threads offer lightweight execution and better performance. Modern operating systems use a combination of both to balance efficiency and reliability.

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