Time-sharing is a technique which enables many people, located at various terminals, to use a particular computer system at the same time. Time-sharing or multitasking is a logical extension of multi programming. Processor's time which is shared among multiple users simultaneously is termed as time-sharing.

The main difference between Multi programmed Batch Systems and Time-Sharing Systems is that in case of Multi programmed batch systems, the objective is to maximize processor use, whereas in Time-Sharing Systems, the objective is to minimize response time.

Multiple jobs are executed by the CPU by switching between them, but the switches occur so frequently. Thus, the user can receive an immediate response. For example, in a transaction processing, the processor executes each user program in a short burst or quantum of computation. That is, if n users are present, then each user can get a time quantum. When the user submits the command, the response time is in few seconds at most.

The operating system uses CPU scheduling and multi programming to provide each user with a small portion of a time. Computer systems that were designed primarily as batch systems have been modified to time-sharing systems.

              A time sharing operating system is that in which each task is given some time to execute and all tasks are given time so that all processes run seamlessly without any problem. Suppose there are many users attached to a single system then each user has given time of CPU. No user can feel to have trouble in using the system.

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• Time-sharing development

• Time-sharing, in data processing, method of operation in which multiple users with different programs interact nearly simultaneously with the central processing unit of a large-scale digital computer. Because the central processor operates substantially faster than does most peripheral equipment (e.g., video display terminals, tape drives, and printers), it has sufficient time to solve several discrete problems during the input/output process. Even though the central processor addresses the problem of each user in sequence, access to and retrieval from the time-sharing system seems instantaneous from the standpoint of remote terminals since the solutions are available to them the moment the problem is completely entered.Time-sharing was developed during the late 1950s and early ’60s to make more efficient use of expensive processor time. Commonly used time-sharing techniques include multiprocessing, parallel operation, and multiprogramming. Also, many computer networks organized for the purpose of exchanging data and resources are centred on time-sharing systems.

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Examples of time sharing 

• Service in Information and Analysis (SIA), on CDC 6600 Kronos.

• System Development Corporation Time-sharing System, on the AN/FSQ-32.

• Stanford ORVYL and WYLBUR, on IBM S/360-67.

• Stanford PDP-1 Time-sharing System → SAIL → WAITS.