Description: An interrupt handler is a software routine designed to manage interruptions generated by hardware devices. When a device, such as a keyboard or mouse, requires the CPU’s attention, it sends an interrupt signal. This signal interrupts the normal flow of the currently running program, allowing the CPU to execute the corresponding interrupt handler. This process is crucial for the efficient functioning of an operating system, as it enables multiple hardware devices to communicate with the CPU effectively and without conflicts. Interrupt handlers are essential for hardware driver programming, where a quick response to events such as user input or the completion of an I/O task is required. In programming languages like C++, interrupt handlers are often implemented using specific functions that are registered with the operating system, allowing software to respond to hardware events in an organized and efficient manner. Proper implementation of an interrupt handler is fundamental to ensuring system stability and performance, as poor management can lead to crashes or suboptimal performance.
