What is the difference between Threads and Processes
Threads and Processes are two fundamental concepts in operating systems and computer science. They are used to execute multiple tasks concurrently.
Process
A process is an instance of a program that is being executed. It is an independent entity that runs in its own memory space. Each process has its own address space, file descriptors, and other resources.
Characteristics of a Process
- Each process has its own memory space.
- Processes are independent of each other.
- Processes are heavyweight.
- Processes are slower to create and manage.
- Processes communicate with each other using Inter-Process Communication (IPC) mechanisms like pipes, sockets, and shared memory.
Example
const { fork } = require('child_process');
const child = fork('./child.js');
child.on('message', (message) => {
console.log(`Received message: ${message}`);
});Thread
A thread is a lightweight process that shares the same memory space as the parent process. Threads are used to perform multiple tasks concurrently within the same process.
Characteristics of a Thread
- Threads share the same memory space.
- Threads are lightweight.
- Threads are faster to create and manage.
- Threads communicate with each other using shared memory.
Example
const { Worker } = require('worker_threads');
const worker = new Worker('./worker.js');
worker.on('message', (message) => {
console.log(`Received message: ${message}`);
});Difference between Threads and Processes
- Memory Space: Processes have their own memory space, while threads share the same memory space.
- Independence: Processes are independent of each other, while threads share the same memory space and resources.
- Creation and Management: Threads are faster to create and manage than processes.
- Communication: Processes communicate with each other using Inter-Process Communication (IPC) mechanisms, while threads communicate with each other using shared memory.
Summary
- Processes are independent entities that run in their own memory space.
- Threads are lightweight processes that share the same memory space as the parent process.
- Threads are faster to create and manage than processes.
- Processes communicate with each other using Inter-Process Communication (IPC) mechanisms, while threads communicate with each other using shared memory.