CPU Scheduling Criteria

CPU scheduling is the process of determining which process or task is to be executed by the
central processing unit (CPU) at any given time. It is an important component of modern
operating systems that allows multiple processes to run simultaneously on a single
processor. The CPU scheduler determines the order and priority in which processes are
executed and allocates CPU time accordingly, based on various criteria such as CPU
utilization, throughput, turnaround time, waiting time, and response time. Efficient CPU
scheduling is crucial for optimizing system performance and ensuring that processes are
executed in a fair and timely manner.

Importance of CPU Scheduling Criteria

CPU scheduling criteria are important for several reasons −

 Efficient resource utilization − By maximizing CPU utilization and throughput, CPU

scheduling ensures that the processor is being used to its full potential. This leads to
increased productivity and efficient use of system resources.

 Fairness − CPU scheduling algorithms that prioritize waiting time and response time
help ensure that all processes have a fair chance to access the CPU. This is important
in multi-user environments where multiple users are competing for the same
resources.

 Responsiveness − CPU scheduling algorithms that prioritize response time ensure

that processes that require immediate attention (such as user input or real-time
systems) are executed quickly, improving the overall responsiveness of the system.

 Predictability − CPU scheduling algorithms that prioritize turnaround time provide a

predictable execution time for processes, which is important for meeting deadlines
and ensuring that critical tasks are completed on time.

CPU Scheduling Criteria

There are some CPU scheduling criteria given below −

1. CPU Utilization

CPU utilization is a criterion used in CPU scheduling that measures the percentage of time
the CPU is busy processing a task. It is important to maximize CPU utilization because when
the CPU is idle, it is not performing any useful work, and this can lead to wasted system
resources and reduced productivity.

A high CPU utilization indicates that the CPU is busy and working efficiently, processing as
many tasks as possible. However, a too high CPU utilization can also result in a system
slowdown due to excessive competition for resources.
Some CPU scheduling algorithms that prioritize CPU utilization include Round Robin, First-
Come-First-Serve (FCFS), and Shortest Job First (SJF). These algorithms aim to keep the CPU
busy by assigning tasks to the CPU as soon as they are ready.

2. Throughput

Throughput is a criterion used in CPU scheduling that measures the number of tasks or
processes completed within a specific period. It is important to maximize throughput
because it reflects the efficiency and productivity of the system. A high throughput indicates
that the system is processing tasks efficiently, which can lead to increased productivity and
faster completion of tasks.

Some CPU scheduling algorithms that prioritize throughput include Round Robin, Shortest
Job First (SJF), and Multilevel Queue (MLQ). These algorithms aim to prioritize short and
simple tasks to increase the number of completed tasks within a specific period.

Throughput is particularly important in batch processing environments where the goal is to

complete as many jobs as possible within a specific time frame. Maximizing throughput can
lead to improved system performance and increased productivity.

3. Turnaround Time

Turnaround time is a criterion used in CPU scheduling that measures the time it takes for a
task or process to complete from the moment it is submitted to the system until it is fully
processed and ready for output. It is important to minimize turnaround time because it
reflects the overall efficiency of the system and can affect user satisfaction and productivity.

A short turnaround time indicates that the system is processing tasks quickly and efficiently,
leading to faster completion of tasks and improved user satisfaction. On the other hand, a
long turnaround time can result in delays, decreased productivity, and user dissatisfaction.

Some CPU scheduling algorithms that prioritize turnaround time include Shortest Job First
(SJF), Priority scheduling, and Multilevel Feedback Queue (MLFQ). These algorithms aim to
prioritize short and simple tasks or give higher priority to more important tasks, which can
lead to shorter turnaround times and improved system efficiency.

4. Waiting Time

Waiting time is a criterion used in CPU scheduling that measures the amount of time a task
or process waits in the ready queue before it is processed by the CPU. It is important to
minimize waiting time because it reflects the efficiency of the scheduling algorithm and
affects user satisfaction.

A short waiting time indicates that tasks are being processed efficiently and quickly, leading
to improved user satisfaction and productivity. On the other hand, a long waiting time can
result in delays and decreased productivity, leading to user dissatisfaction. Some CPU
scheduling algorithms that prioritize waiting time include Shortest Job First (SJF), Priority
scheduling, and Multilevel Feedback Queue (MLFQ). These algorithms aim to prioritize short
and simple tasks or give higher priority to more important tasks, which can lead to shorter
waiting times and improved system efficiency.

5. Response Time

Response time is a criterion used in CPU scheduling that measures the time it takes for the
system to respond to a user's request or input. It is important to minimize response time
because it affects user satisfaction and the overall efficiency of the system. A short response
time indicates that the system is processing tasks quickly and efficiently, leading to improved
user satisfaction and productivity. On the other hand, a long response time can result in user
frustration and decreased productivity. Some CPU scheduling algorithms that prioritize
response time include Round Robin, Priority scheduling, and Multilevel Feedback Queue
(MLFQ). These algorithms aim to prioritize tasks that require immediate attention, such as
user input, to reduce response time and improve system efficiency.

Importance of selecting the right CPU scheduling algorithm for specific situations

Selecting the right CPU scheduling algorithm for specific situations is crucial because
different algorithms prioritize the CPU scheduling criteria differently. Each algorithm has its
own strengths and weaknesses, and choosing the wrong algorithm for a particular situation
can lead to suboptimal system performance and decreased efficiency.

For example, Round Robin scheduling algorithm is effective in time-sharing systems, where
tasks need to be executed in a short amount of time, while Shortest Job First (SJF)
scheduling algorithm is effective in batch processing systems, where shorter jobs should be
completed first to maximize throughput. Priority scheduling algorithm is useful in real-time
systems, where certain tasks need to be given higher priority to ensure timely completion.

Choosing the right CPU scheduling algorithm requires a thorough understanding of the
system requirements and the tasks being processed. Factors such as the number of
processes, the processing time required, and the urgency of the tasks all affect the choice of
algorithm. By selecting the right algorithm, the system can ensure efficient use of system
resources, improved productivity, and user satisfaction.