What is starvation in OS?
Starvation in an operating system occurs when a process is perpetually denied access to required resources, preventing it from progressing or completing its execution. This typically happens when resource allocation prioritizes other processes indefinitely.
Real-World Example
Imagine a buffet line where high-priority guests are always served first. If new high-priority guests keep arriving, a low-priority guest might never get their turn to eat. Similarly, in an OS, lower-priority processes can experience starvation if higher-priority processes continuously take precedence.
Causes of Starvation
- Priority Scheduling: In a priority-based scheduling system, lower-priority processes might be indefinitely delayed if higher-priority processes keep arriving.
- Resource Contention: Processes competing for limited resources may lead to one being perpetually blocked.
- Improper Synchronization: Poorly designed algorithms can result in some processes being left out of resource allocation.
- Long Critical Sections: Processes holding resources for extended periods can delay others indefinitely.
Effects of Starvation
- Unfair Resource Allocation: Some processes are never granted resources.
- Decreased System Efficiency: Starvation can reduce overall throughput as blocked processes waste system time.
- Program Failures: Starved processes might terminate prematurely, leading to incomplete tasks.
Solutions to Prevent Starvation
- Aging: Gradually increase the priority of a process waiting in the queue, ensuring it eventually gets served.
- Fair Scheduling Algorithms: Use scheduling methods like Round Robin or Fair Queueing that avoid indefinite delays.
- Resource Allocation Strategies: Implement mechanisms like quotas or fairness policies to ensure equitable resource distribution.
- Time-Bound Allocation: Set maximum wait times for processes in a queue.
Difference Between Starvation and Deadlock
- Starvation: A process waits indefinitely but other processes can still execute.
- Deadlock: All processes involved are waiting on resources held by each other, halting the entire system.
Understanding starvation is crucial for designing efficient and fair operating systems. Techniques like aging and fair scheduling ensure that all processes get the resources they need, preventing system inefficiencies and ensuring smooth operation.
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