multi-user

In computing, an operating system that enables several users to access centrally stored data and programs simultaneously over a network. Each user has a terminal, which may be local (connected directly to the computer) or remote (connected to the computer via a modem and a telephone line). The growth of the internet has given rise to new forms of application level multi-user systems. Multi-user online games and meeting software are examples of a growing range of collaboration and interaction systems.

Multi-access is usually achieved by time-sharing: the computer switches very rapidly between terminals and programs so that each user has sole use of the computer for only a fraction of a second but can work as if she or he had continuous access.

Multi-user systems are becoming increasingly common in the workplace, and have many advantages – such as enabling employees to refer to and update a shared corporate database. The travel industry uses a multi-user system to manage bookings of airline tickets; travel agents around the world using the system can access information on available seats as readily as an airline's own office.