DLLs, Processes, and Threads
Windows-based applications consist of executable files and DLLs. Most applications interact with the user through a graphical user interface (GUI), or a character-mode interface. A running application is known as a process. Each process owns system resources. The threads of a process execute its code.
The following overviews describe the creation and usage of DLLs, processes, and threads.
| Overview | Description |
|---|---|
| Character-Mode Applications | Character-mode applications do not provide their own graphical user interface. Instead, they interact with consoles. |
| Dynamic-Link Libraries | DLLs are executable modules that contain functions and data. DLLs provide a way to modularize applications so they can be loaded, updated, and reused more easily. |
| Process Status Helper | The process status helper functions make it easier for you to obtain information about processes and device drivers. |
| Processes and Threads | A thread is the basic unit to which the operating system allocates processor time. A process is an executing application that consists of one or more threads. |
| Services | A service is an application that conforms to the interface rules of the Service Control Manager. Services can execute even when no user is logged on. |
| Synchronization | Threads can use synchronization functions to coordinate access to a resource. |
| Tool Help Library | The functions provided by the tool help library make it easier for you to obtain information about currently executing applications. |
| Window Stations and Desktops | A desktop is a securable object contained within a window station. A desktop has a logical display surface and contains user interface objects such as windows, menus, and hooks. Each desktop is associated with a thread and can be used to create and manage windows. |
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Build date: 11/30/2010