What is the difference between processes and threads?

In computer science, understanding the difference between processes and threads is crucial for developing efficient and scalable applications. Here's a detailed explanation of both concepts and their differences:

Processes

A process is an independent execution unit that contains a set of instructions executed by the central processing unit (CPU). Each process has its own separate memory space, which includes the program code and its activity. Due to this isolation, processes are not affected by the execution of other processes, making them more secure and stable. Processes are heavier in terms of system resource usage and take more time to create and manage. They are scheduled by the operating system and can execute concurrently on multiple processors or interleaved on a single processor[1][2][3][4].

Threads

A thread, often referred to as a lightweight process, is a component of a process that can execute independently. Threads within the same process share the same memory space, including variables and program code, which allows for efficient communication and data sharing between them. This shared environment, however, necessitates mechanisms like mutexes to avoid race conditions and ensure data integrity. Threads are quicker to create and destroy, use fewer resources than processes, and are ideal for tasks that require frequent communication or shared data[1][2][3][4].

Key Differences

1. Memory Allocation: Processes have independent memory spaces, while threads share memory space within the same process. This shared memory facilitates faster communication but requires careful synchronization to prevent data corruption[1][2][3][4].

2. Creation and Management: Threads are quicker and less resource-intensive to create and manage compared to processes. This makes threads suitable for environments where rapid task execution is crucial[1][2][4].

3. Performance: Due to sha...