What do we call it when a computer runs more than one process at a time?

The term for when a computer runs more than one process at a time is multitasking. This concept involves the operating system's ability to manage and execute multiple tasks or processes concurrently, allowing users to perform various activities, such as running applications, downloading files, or streaming media simultaneously. Multitasking enhances efficiency and responsiveness in computing, as it lets users interact with multiple applications without noticeable interruptions.

In the context of computing, multitasking can be either preemptive or cooperative, with modern operating systems primarily employing preemptive multitasking, where the system allocates processor time to various tasks dynamically. This ability facilitates a smoother experience for users, as it creates the illusion that processes are running in parallel, even if the processor is switching between them rapidly.

Understanding this concept is crucial for grasping how operating systems work and the importance of efficient resource management in computing environments.