Processor scheduling is an important technique in computer science that focuses on the allocation of computing resources between multiple tasks. It determines which tasks to assign to each processor so that desired goals are achieved efficiently. Processor scheduling is used in operating systems to maximize resource utilization, minimize response time, and achieve fair scheduling among multiple tasks. It is an essential technique for resource management in modern-day computer systems.
In this blog post, we will discuss the various processor scheduling techniques used in computer systems. We will explain the different categories of processor scheduling algorithms and discuss their advantages and disadvantages. We will also explore the various optimization approaches used in processor scheduling. Finally, we will discuss some common processor scheduling techniques and explore their practical applications. Through this blog post, readers will gain a better understanding of the importance of processor scheduling and the benefits it can bring to modern computer systems.
1. First Come First Serve
First Come First Serve (FCFS) is a processor scheduling technique that processes requests in the order they are received. It is one of the simplest scheduling algorithms and is often used to manage batch processing systems. This technique ensures that all requests are handled in the same order they are received, and all requests are processed in their entirety. With FCFS, requests are serviced in the order they are received and no request is processed until all requests that were received before it have been completely serviced. This scheduling technique is the most fair for users, as no request is given preferential treatment.
2. Shortest Job First
The shortest job first (SJF) processor scheduling technique is one of the most widely used processor scheduling algorithms. It is a preemptive, priority-based scheduling algorithm that assigns the highest priority to the job with the smallest execution time. By using the SJF technique, the processor can efficiently manage the execution of processes and minimize waiting times. It ensures that the most important jobs are completed first, allowing the processor to execute tasks in the shortest possible time. SJF scheduling is also highly reliable, as it does not rely on predictions or assumptions about the execution time of jobs. This makes it an attractive choice for real-time systems.
3. Priority Scheduling
Priority scheduling is a preemptive scheduling algorithm where each task is assigned a priority level. The highest priority task is always scheduled first, regardless of any other factors. This means that tasks with higher priority levels can interrupt tasks with lower priority levels. It is best used when tasks have varying priority levels and when some tasks must be completed before others. Furthermore, priority scheduling can help prevent the priority inversion problem by ensuring that higher priority tasks are always given the processor first.
4. Round Robin Scheduling
Round Robin Scheduling is a preemptive algorithm that is used to schedule processes in a system. This algorithm assigns each process a certain amount of time, known as a time slice or quantum, which is measured in milliseconds. The CPU is then assigned to each process for that Quantum of time, in a cyclic, round robin fashion. This scheduling algorithm is useful for short processes, as it prevents any one process from hogging the CPU resources. However, it is less efficient for longer processes, as the context switch between processes requires a large amount of overhead.
5. Multilevel Queue Scheduling
Multilevel Queue Scheduling is one of the most popular processor scheduling techniques used in operating systems today. This technique is a form of priority scheduling where jobs are placed into multiple queues based on their priority. Each queue is then managed by a separate scheduling algorithm and each job is moved from one queue to another based on their priority. This technique is great for managing multiple processes with different priorities and allows the system to quickly process the highest priority jobs first. It is also efficient in terms of system resources, as it requires fewer context switches than other scheduling techniques.
In conclusion, processor scheduling is essential to improving system performance and user experience. Different techniques such as First Come First Serve, Round Robin, Priority Scheduling and Shortest Job First are used to determine which processes are allocated CPU time. Each technique offers its own advantages and disadvantages and must be carefully weighed before choosing the right one for the task at hand. Ultimately, processor scheduling techniques provide an effective way of managing multiple processes efficiently and ensuring that users receive the best possible experience.


