Difference between Multiprogramming and Multitasking

Last Updated : 10 Sep, 2024

Both multi-programming and multi-tasking are related to concepts in operating systems. CPU is a super fast device and keeping it occupied for a single task is never a good idea. Considering the huge differences between CPU speed and IO speed, many concepts like multiprogramming, multitasking, multithreading, etc have been introduced to make better CPU utilization. In this article, we will learn about he differences between Multiprogramming and Multitasking in detail.

What is Multiprogramming?

Multi-programming increases CPU utilization by organizing jobs (code and data) so that the CPU always has one to execute. The idea is to keep multiple jobs in the main memory. If one job gets occupied with IO, the CPU can be assigned to another job.

Multiprogramming

Advantages of Multiprogramming

Multiprogramming systems involve high CPU utilization. Thus, waiting time is reduced.
Less waiting and response time
Useful in scenarios where load on CPU is higher.

Disadvantages of Multiprogramming

Process scheduling is difficult
Main memory management is required
Problems like memory fragmentation may occur that would lead to inadequate space consumption

What is Multitasking?

Multi-tasking is a logical extension of multiprogramming. Multitasking is the ability of an OS to execute more than one task simultaneously on a CPU machine. These multiple tasks share common resources (like CPU and memory). In multi-tasking systems, the CPU executes multiple jobs by switching among them typically using a small time quantum, and the switches occur so quickly that the users feel like interact with each executing task at the same time.

Multitasking

Note: 1. A task in a multitasking system is not whole application program but it can refers to a "thread of execution" when one process is divided into sub-tasks.

2. Multitasking OS are time sharing systems.

Advantages of Multitasking

The system can be used to handle multiple interactive tasks.
It is just an extension of the multiprogramming system but with round robin system that leads to a fair share.
It has a high CPU utilization.
Less waiting time, less response time
Useful in scenarios where current load is high

Disadvantages of Multitasking

In multitasking systems, process scheduling is difficult.
Main memory management is required
Problems like memory fragmentation may occur.

If we observe, then the advantages and disadvantages of both multiprogramming and multitasking are similar, as they are more or less the same models or systems.