Time-sharing

In computing, time-sharing is the concurrent sharing of a computing resource among many tasks or users by giving each task or user a small slice of processing time. This quick switch between tasks or users gives the illusion of simultaneous execution.^[1]^[2] It enables multi-tasking by a single user or enables multiple-user sessions.

Developed during the 1960s, its emergence as the prominent model of computing in the 1970s represented a major technological shift in the history of computing. By allowing many users to interact concurrently with a single computer, time-sharing dramatically lowered the cost of providing computing capability, made it possible for individuals and organizations to use a computer without owning one,^[3] and promoted the interactive use of computers and the development of new interactive applications.

^ "Time-sharing definition – Glossary | NordVPN". nordvpn.com (in Portuguese). 2023-11-23. Retrieved 2024-06-17.
^ "Time Sharing Operating System". GeeksforGeeks. 2020-04-28. Retrieved 2024-06-17.
^ IBM advertised, early 1960s, with a headline: "This man is sharing a $2 million computer"

[1] "Time-sharing definition – Glossary | NordVPN". nordvpn.com (in Portuguese). 2023-11-23. Retrieved 2024-06-17.

[2] "Time Sharing Operating System". GeeksforGeeks. 2020-04-28. Retrieved 2024-06-17.

[3] IBM advertised, early 1960s, with a headline: "This man is sharing a $2 million computer"

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