Operating System Questions Medium
The interrupt handler in an operating system serves the purpose of managing and responding to various types of interrupts that occur during the execution of a computer program. Interrupts are signals generated by hardware devices or software events that require immediate attention from the operating system.
The main purpose of the interrupt handler is to handle these interrupts in a timely and efficient manner. It is responsible for identifying the source of the interrupt, prioritizing and managing multiple interrupts, and executing the appropriate actions or routines to handle each interrupt.
The interrupt handler plays a crucial role in maintaining the stability and responsiveness of the operating system. It allows the operating system to efficiently handle external events such as user input, hardware device requests, and system errors. By interrupting the normal execution of a program, the interrupt handler ensures that critical tasks are addressed promptly, preventing potential system failures or delays.
Additionally, the interrupt handler facilitates the communication and coordination between the operating system and the hardware devices. It enables the operating system to interact with the hardware components, such as reading data from input devices or sending output to display devices, by handling the corresponding interrupts generated by these devices.
Overall, the purpose of the interrupt handler in an operating system is to effectively manage and respond to interrupts, ensuring the proper functioning and efficient operation of the system.