What is the difference between multithreading and multitasking in Python?
What is the difference between multithreading and multitasking in Python?
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03-Mar-2025
Updated on 07-Mar-2025
Khushi Singh
07-Mar-2025Multitasking through multithreading serves different functions from multitasking because it uses various implementation methods.
Multithreading
Multiple threads can operate in a single process while distributing memory and resources to each other under the programming concept known as multithreading. The threading module serves as the Python implementation mechanism for multithreading operations. The Global Interpreter Lock (GIL) implemented by Python prevents CPU-bound tasks from processing simultaneously by different threads. Python threading works most effectively for performing I/O-bound activities which include file reading along with network requests and database queries.
A system that supports multiple threads operates more responsively since different operations can progress without delaying one another. A graphical user interface separates threads into distinct units which allow user input processing through one thread together with background operations handled by a second thread. Thread management becomes possible through locks and semaphores that prevent race conditions.
Multitasking
Operating systems and applications execute multiple separate operations at the same time when they carry out multitasking capabilities. The system permits process-based multitasking which enables independent processes to operate from different memory spaces. Through its multiprocessing module Python implements multitasking by creating separate processes that avoid the GIL constraints.
Procedures excel when it comes to CPU-intensive operations because their isolated memory structure enables tasks like data processing and machine learning together with mathematical computations. Process creation uses up major system resources while demanding inter-process communication (IPC) to enable data distribution between processes.
Key Difference
The memory-sharing abilities of multiple threads in I/O-bound operations make multithreading perform best while independent multitasking processes operate most efficiently through multiprocessing. The decision between approaches depends on the quantity of tasks done by CPU and I/O components.