Multitasking

Multitasking is the simultaneous execution of multiple tasks. The term Multitasking, formed by placing the words Multi and tasking side by side, refers to multiple processes or multiple tasks.

Even trying to drink coffee while talking on the phone in our daily life is an example of Multitasking. The concept of Multitasking, which takes place in our daily life like this, also appears in operating systems. So, in an operating system, Multitasking is the ability of a user to process their multiple processes simultaneously.

Initially, Multitasking was not used in personal computers. As technology advanced, Multitasking became usable and was quickly brought to personal computers. Even smartphones were given Multitasking, allowing users to perform multiple tasks such as listening to music while browsing the internet. Today, nearly all operating systems such as Microsoft and Linux have the feature of Multitasking.
 

What Does Multitasking Serve For?

It enables the user to execute multiple tasks on the computer simultaneously. The operating system tracks where the user's task is performed and transitions between tasks without loss of information.

Multitasking processes multiple tasks in memory simultaneously and allows the processor and I/O units to be used simultaneously among these. For example, when the web browser and Excel are opened at the same time, Multitasking is used. The ability of the operating system to do this speeds up the operation, however, giving endless tasks at the same time can slow down the operating system or fill up storage space.

Moreover, the simultaneous execution of multiple tasks belonging to an operating system itself does not indicate that this system has a “Multitasking” feature. Therefore, the Multitasking feature in an operating system is only possible if it can process the multiple tasks of a user at the same time. That means if the user can perform multiple tasks on the computer simultaneously, if numerous applications can be run at the same time, there is Multitasking. For this, tasks are divided into short time frames and a level of simultaneity, albeit artificial, is achieved.

Tasks are not run at the same time. In fact, using the ability of Microprocessors to process very quickly, an illusion as if it is happening at the same time is created, and all tasks to be performed on the system are queued.
 

What Are the Advantages of Multitasking?

Multitasking allows multiple tasks in the operating system to be performed simultaneously. Works are done at the same time. The main advantages of Multitasking are as follows:

1. Management of Multiple Applications - Versatility

It allows several applications to function smoothly without affecting system performance. Multitasking is used to operate on different applications.

2. Resource Optimization

A multi-tasking operating system manages various computer resources such as I/O devices, RAM, hard disk, CPU, and others.

3. Productivity

With multitasking, different software applications are run simultaneously. This improves productivity. For example; while arranging data in Excel, you can view your emails, you can send/receive emails or update applications. While writing code, you can open and read an article, you can play music in the background.

4. Convenience

Multitasking allows data to be copied between different programs and windows, providing convenience for the user.

5. Speed

In a business world where speed is so important to complete tasks, multitasking can support multiple tasks simultaneously. Multitasking allows tasks to be completed quickly. Once you start using multitasking, you can do multiple tasks not only in a tidy but also a fast way.
 

What Are the Disadvantages of Multitasking?

• Requires more system resources.
• The system may run programs slowly due to the low speed of its processors and can increase the response time from the program.
• When multiple programs are loading, it can overload the main memory, which can slow down the performance of the computer.
• Requires more battery power. This leads to energy consumption.

How to Use Multitasking on a Computer?

You can open multiple windows simultaneously. You can use keyboard shortcuts to switch between open windows. You can provide convenience by using multiple monitors or screens at the same time.