What term is used to describe the process of switching CPU focus between different tasks?

The term used to describe the process of switching CPU focus between different tasks is context switching. This process is essential in multitasking operating systems, where the CPU must manage multiple processes efficiently. During a context switch, the state of the current task is saved so that it can be resumed later, and the state of the next task to be executed is loaded.

This allows the CPU to handle multiple tasks seemingly simultaneously, creating the illusion of parallel execution. Context switching, however, does incur overhead because it involves saving and loading context information, which includes registers, program counters, and memory management information.

The other terms mentioned do not accurately describe this specific aspect of CPU management. Task rotation and thread management relate to managing tasks or threads but do not specifically capture the full scope of the context switching process that involves saving and restoring states. Process handling generally pertains to the broader management of processes within the operating system rather than the specific mechanics of switching focus from one task to another.