Quick help

[Robert]

In XP how does the OS prevent mutual access to critical resources? It's a question on my mock paper and I can't seem to find a definate answer.


(a) One of the main issues in multi-tasking operating systems relates to the prevention of mutual access to a critical resource.

How, in practice, can this be achieved

[LeperousDust]

I've got no idea, but if i had to answer it, i'd go down the line of something to do with Interrupt requests etc...

[Mark]

Ah, inter-process/inter-thread synchronisation. Fun (and generally evil) stuff.

Do some google research on 'mutex' and 'semaphore' (the latter in computer use, not old-style signalling use). That should get you a good start. :)

[Robert]

I made some notes about Locks. Phone something on Semaphores as well.

[Daz]

How do they define 'critical resources'?