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Multithreading in java





The java programming language allows us to create a program that contains one or more parts that can run simultaneously at the same time. This type of program is known as a multithreading program. Each part of this program is called a thread. Every thread defines a separate path of execution in java. A thread is explained in different ways, and a few of them are as specified below.

A thread is a light wieght process.

A thread may also be defined as follows.

A thread is a subpart of a process that can run individually.

In java, multiple threads can run at a time, which enables the java to write multitasking programs. The multithreading is a specialized form of multitasking. All modern operating systems support multitasking. There are two types of multitasking, and they are as follows.

  • Process-based multitasking
  • Thread-based multitasking

It is important to know the difference between process-based and thread-based multitasking. Let's distinguish both.

Process-based multitasking Thread-based multitasking
It allows the computer to run two or more programs concurrently It allows the computer to run two or more threads concurrently
In this process is the smallest unit. In this thread is the smallest unit.
Process is a larger unit. Thread is a part of process.
Process is heavy weight. Thread is light weight.
Process requires seperate address space for each. Threads share same address space.
Process never gain access over idle time of CPU. Thread gain access over idle time of CPU.
Inter process communication is expensive. Inter thread communication is not expensive.

In the upcoming tutorials, we learn things like, what are the different phases in a thread life cycle? how to create threads in java? and how to synchronize multiple threads?