Interrupt handler

An interrupt handler is a component of an operating system or computer hardware that is responsible for responding to asynchronous input from outside the system. It serves as a “listener” and processes events such as hardware interrupts, software interrupts, and traps. Interrupt handlers are a key component of computer systems and are critical to protecting the system’s resources and allowing programs to run correctly.

When an interrupt is triggered, it can cause the processor to step away from its regular sequence of operations and begin executing the handler code. The reason for this is because an interrupt could affect the operation of the entire system and the interrupt handler needs to process the event and take the necessary steps to ensure that the system is not left in an inconsistent state. Depending on the type of interrupt, the handler may take action to pause the main program flow, perform tasks related to the interrupt, or signal the user that something occurred.

Since most operating systems rely on interrupt handlers to keep track of input and process system requests, having an efficient interrupt handler is essential for performance and stability. Interrupt handlers must be written so that they are programmed to respond quickly, effectively, and without any data corruption. Many operating systems, particularly Windows, have many different interrupt handlers to ensure that each type of interrupt can be handled correctly.

Interrupt handlers usually take the form of drivers or code modules within the kernel of the system. The design of an interrupt handler varies from system to system, though they have the same core structure. Interrupt handlers are capable of masking some interrupts from propagating upstream, as well as remapping interrupt vectors to different interrupt numbers. Interrupt handlers can also be used to change the scheduling priority of a process or thread, or to set a signal number to be sent to the kernel or program in the event of an interrupt.

Interrupt handlers are important components of computer systems and are necessary for the proper functioning of modern operating systems. Without them, the system would be unable to respond to external events, or would be prone to software and hardware conflicts.