Cgroups

Cgroups (Control Groups) are a feature in the Linux kernel that enables the limitation and control of resources, such as CPU, memory, I/O, and more, for sets of processes. This addresses the challenge of resource isolation and control in multi-user and multi-tasking systems.

Cgroups allow you to define usage limits for specific process sets, leading to more effective and predictable resource utilization on the server. For instance, you can specify that a particular group of processes cannot exceed a certain level of CPU or memory usage, leading to improved overall system performance.

In addition to limiting resources, cgroups can also manage process priorities, process isolation, load balancing, and resource access control.

Cgroups enable the grouping of processes and the establishment of resource management rules for each group. This is particularly valuable in virtualized environments, where isolation and resource management are needed for various process groups or containers.
Additionally, cgroups provide a mechanism for monitoring and accounting for resource usage by processes within the defined groups. This allows administrators to track resource consumption, identify potential bottlenecks, and make informed decisions about resource allocation and system optimization.

Cgroups can integrate with other system management tools and utilities, enabling more comprehensive control and visibility into resource utilization across the system.

Cgroups also support hierarchical organization, allowing for the creation of nested groups with their own resource allocation and control policies. This hierarchical structure enables more granular resource management and flexibility in accommodating diverse workload requirements within the same system.

Cgroups are extensively used in different containerization technologies such as Docker, Kubernetes, and others. They facilitate the management and allocation of resources amongst containers, resulting in more efficient utilization of computing resources.
In summary, cgroups play a crucial role in enhancing system stability, performance, and resource efficiency in complex, multi-tenant environments. Their versatility and flexibility make them an essential tool for managing resources in modern computing infrastructure.