background
(n.) (1) Multitasking computers are capable of executing several tasks, or programs, at the same time. In some multitasking systems, one of the processes is called the foreground process , and the others are called background processes.
The foreground process is the one that accepts input from the keyboard, mouse, or other input device. Background processes cannot accept interactive input from a user, but they can access data stored on a disk and write data to the video display. For example, some word processors print files in the background, enabling you to continue editing while files are being printed. This is called print spooling . In addition, many communications programs are designed to run in the background. Background processes generally have a lower priority than foreground processes so that they do not interfere with interactive applications.
Even though DOS is not a multitasking operating system, it can perform some specialized tasks, such as printing, in the background. Operating environments, such as Microsoft Windows and the Macintosh operating system, provide a more general multitasking environment.
(2) The area of a display screen not covered by characters and graphics. The background is like a canvas on top of which characters and graphics are placed. Some monitors allow you to control the color or shading of the background.
Featured Partners Sponsored
-
1
private cloud project
Companies initiate private cloud projects to enable their IT infrastructure to become more capable of quickly adapting to continually evolving...
-
2
cloud backup
A cloud backup (cloud computer backup) refers to backing up data to a remote, cloud-based server. As a form of cloud storage, cloud backup data is...
-
-
3
mobile operating system
The mobile operating system is the software platform on top of which other programs, called application programs, can run on mobile devices.
-
4
big data
A catch-phrase, used to describe a massive volume of both structured and unstructured data that is so large that it's difficult to process with...
-
5
enterprise application
An enterprise application is the term used to describe applications -- or software -- that a business would use to assist the organization in...
-
6
private cloud
The phrase used to describe a cloud computing platform that is implemented within the corporate firewall, under the control of the IT department....
-
7
BYOD - bring your own device
A phrase that has become widely adopted to refer to mobile workers bringing their own mobile devices, such as smartphones, laptops and PDAs, into...
-
8
consumerization of IT
Consumerization of IT is a phrase used to describe the cycle of information technology (IT) emerging in the consumer market then spreading to...
-
9
CRM - Customer Relationship Management
Short for customer relationship management, CRM entails all aspects of interaction a company has with its customer, whether it be sales or service...
-
10
ERP - Enterprise Resource Planning
Short for enterprise resource planning, ERP is business management software that allows an organization to use a system of integrated applications...
Connect with Webopedia
-
-
Android Apps for Remote Computer Access
Remote access is useful when you need to collaborate with co-workers, help a friend with PC problems or grab files from your desktop.
