Thread

Updated: 10/01/2023 by Computer Hope

A thread may refer to any of the following:

Illustration of CPU threads.

1. With computer programming, a thread is a small set of instructions designed to be scheduled and executed by the CPU (central processing unit) independently of the parent process. With single threading, one process is performed to completion before the next is started. However, most computers and programs today support multithreading, where the CPU can execute multiple threads concurrently.

For example, a program may have an open thread waiting for a specific event to occur or running a separate job, allowing the main program to perform other tasks. A program can have multiple threads open at once and terminate or suspend them after the task is completed or the program is closed.

Hyper-Threading, an Intel technology, divides a physical core of a CPU into two logical cores, executing an additional, concurrent set of instructions to increase performance.

2. With a computer forum, a thread or threaded discussion consists of an original message or post and each of its corresponding responses. For example, in a newsgroup or message board, a user may post a question relating to computers. Each of the replies relating to the original message is a single thread. Below is an illustration to help give you a better idea of how a thread looks.

Original Post:
<Original Message> user - [email protected]
Hello, I was wondering if anyone knows how to turn on a computer.
>>Joe - [email protected]
>>User have you tried pressing the power button?
>>>>User - [email protected]
>>>>Joe what is the power button?
>>>>>>Joe - [email protected]
>>>>>>The power button is usually a small round button located on the front of your computer's case.

As seen in the above example thread, a user can view the complete message and make any additional feedback or comments as well. A thread can refer to any ongoing communication, including e-mail.

3. Threads is an Instagram feature introduced on July 5, 2023, that allows users to communicate with text, similar to X.

Background, Background thread, CPU terms, Fork, Forum, Internet terms, Message, Message board, Newsgroup, Programming terms, TLP