switching
n. uncountablen. the act of changing from one thing to another, like moving between different tasks or computer programs.
n. the process of alternating between different states, tasks, or technical configurations. In computing, it specifically refers to the movement of data packets between network segments or the transition between active processes.
Switching between different apps can drain your phone battery.
The network administrator improved performance by upgrading the hardware responsible for packet switching.
Frequent task switching in the workplace often leads to a decrease in overall productivity as the brain requires time to recalibrate to each new set of demands.
Often functions as a gerund-noun; frequently appears in compound nouns like 'packet switching' or 'context switching'.