The Python Standard Library by Example

Chapter 10. Processes and Threads

Python includes sophisticated tools for managing concurrent operations using processes and threads. Even many relatively simple programs can be made to run faster by applying techniques for running parts of the job concurrently using these modules.

subprocess provides an API for creating and communicating with secondary processes. It is especially good for running programs that produce or consume text, since the API supports passing data back and forth through the standard input and output channels of the new process.

The signal module exposes the UNIX signal mechanism for sending events to other processes. The signals are processed asynchronously, usually by interrupting what the program is doing when the signal ...