Context switch · WebGlossary.info

The process of storing the state of a process or thread, so that it can be restored and resume execution at a later point. Context switching allows multiple processes to share a single CPU, and is an essential feature of a multi-tasking operating system. The precise meaning of the phrase “context switch” varies. In the multi-tasking context, it refers to the process of storing the system state for one task, so that task can be paused and another task resumed. A context switch can also occur as the result of an interrupt, such as when a task needs to access disk storage, freeing up CPU time for other tasks. Some operating systems also require a context switch to move between user mode and kernel mode tasks. The process of context switching can have a negative impact on system performance. ← Wikipedia