Software interrupt definition

Software interrupt

A software interrupt is a signal to the processor initiated by software, indicating an event that needs immediate attention. It serves as a mechanism for programs to interrupt the current process and request specific services from the operating system.

In the early days of computing, only hardware could alert the CPU of certain events. But as computers evolved, software needed its own way to send these alerts without waiting for a physical event. Software interrupts became a solution, allowing programs to talk directly with the main part of the operating system. This led to more efficient software design and better resource management.

See also: CPU utilization, CPU contention

Types of software interrupts

System calls. These are commands that let software ask the operating system to do something. For example, when a program wants to read a file, it can issue a system call interrupt.
Exception handling. An exception interrupt happens when a program encounters an error like division by zero.
Traps. A trap is a software interrupt often used for debugging. When a certain condition in a program is met, it will trap or pause execution, allowing the programmer to inspect what’s happening.

Uses of software interrupts

Communication. Software interrupts let programs communicate with the operating system to do things like open files or save data.
Resource management. They ensure that programs use the CPU and other resources efficiently. If one task is waiting for an external resource, the system can switch to another, keeping the computer busy and efficient.
Error handling. Software interrupts detect and fix errors. That prevents crashes caused by unexpected conditions (e.g., trying to access a memory location that doesn’t exist).
Debugging. Developers can use these interrupts to pause a program to check and fix issues in real time.