FCFS Algorithms
SlideMake.com
Introduction to FCFS Algorithms
• FCFS, or First-Come, First-Served, is one of the simplest
scheduling algorithms used in operating systems.
• It operates on the principle that the first process to arrive is the first
to be executed.
• This method is commonly used in both CPU scheduling and disk
scheduling scenarios.
1
How FCFS Works
• In FCFS, processes are maintained in a queue based on their
arrival times.
• Once a process starts executing, it runs to completion before the
next process in line is addressed.
• The order of execution is strictly determined by the order of arrival,
without preemption.
2
Advantages of FCFS
• One of the primary advantages of FCFS is its simplicity and ease of
implementation.
• It provides a fair allocation of CPU time, as each process gets its
turn based solely on arrival time.
• FCFS is predictable, which can simplify system design and
performance analysis.
3
Disadvantages of FCFS
• The main disadvantage of FCFS is the "convoy effect," where short
processes wait for long processes to complete.
• It can lead to suboptimal average waiting times, especially in
environments with varying process lengths.
• FCFS is not suitable for time-sensitive applications, as it does not
prioritize urgent tasks.
4
FCFS in Operating Systems
• FCFS is commonly used in batch systems where processes are
executed without user interaction.
• It is often the first scheduling algorithm introduced in operating
system courses due to its straightforward nature.
• Many operating systems implement FCFS for managing background
processes and print jobs.
5
Performance Metrics
• Key performance metrics for FCFS include average waiting time,
turnaround time, and response time.
• The average waiting time can be significantly affected by the order
of process arrival.
• In scenarios with long processes, the overall system throughput
may suffer due to inefficient scheduling.
6
Comparison with Other Algorithms
• Compared to Shortest Job First (SJF), FCFS can lead to longer
average wait times.
• Round Robin scheduling offers more responsiveness, while FCFS
can lead to starvation for shorter processes.
• Unlike Priority Scheduling, FCFS does not consider the priority of
processes, treating all equally.
7
Real-World Applications
• FCFS is utilized in various real-world applications, including print
spooling systems.
• It can be seen in task scheduling for batch jobs in mainframe
environments.
• Many hardware queues, such as disk scheduling, can also
implement FCFS due to its straightforward nature.
8
Modifications and Variants
• Variants of FCFS, like Shortest Job First, aim to mitigate some of
FCFS's inefficiencies.
• Some systems incorporate priority levels while still maintaining the
queue's first-come order.
• Hybrid scheduling algorithms often combine aspects of FCFS with
other principles to improve responsiveness.
9
Conclusion
• FCFS remains a fundamental concept in scheduling algorithms,
providing insights into basic process management.
• While it has limitations, its simplicity makes it a useful tool in many
scenarios.
• Understanding FCFS is essential for grasping more complex
scheduling algorithms and their behaviors.
• Feel free to adjust or expand any of the slides as needed!
10
