Inter-Process Communication (IPC)

Overview

• Definition: IPC refers to the methods and mechanisms that allow processes to communicate with each other in an operating system.
• Types of Processes: Processes can be:
  • Independent Processes: Cannot affect or be affected by other processes.
  • Cooperating Processes: Can affect or be affected by each other (e.g., sharing data).

Importance of IPC in Cooperating Processes

• Need for IPC: Essential for communication between cooperating processes.

Reasons for Allowing Process Cooperation

1. Information Sharing:

   • Multiple users may need access to the same data (e.g., shared files).
   • IPC facilitates concurrent access.

2. Computational Speedup:

   • Tasks can be divided into subtasks and executed concurrently.
   • Enhances system speed and efficiency.

3. Modularity:

   • Systems are designed as separate modules, which need to communicate.
   • Encourages collaborative development of complex systems.

4. Convenience:

   • Allows users to perform multiple tasks simultaneously (e.g., listening to music, typing, printing).
   • Ensures that processes can run smoothly without interference.

IPC Mechanisms

• Definition: IPC mechanisms allow processes to exchange data and information.
• Models of IPC:
  1. Shared Memory:
     • A shared region of memory is established for cooperating processes.
     • Processes communicate by reading/writing data to this shared region.
  2. Message Passing:
     • Communication takes place through messages exchanged between processes.
     • Messages are sent via the kernel, ensuring proper delivery.

Diagrams of IPC Models

• Shared Memory Model:
  • Process A writes to a shared memory region.
  • Process B reads from the shared memory region.
• Message Passing Model:
  • Process A sends a message to the kernel.
  • The kernel forwards the message to Process B.

Conclusion

• Understanding IPC is crucial in operating systems for efficient process management and communication.
• The two fundamental models (Shared Memory and Message Passing) are key topics in IPC.