What feature of a microcomputer allows users to view multiple programs simultaneously?

The feature that allows users to view multiple programs simultaneously is windowing. This capability is fundamental in graphical user interfaces, where each program can open in a separate window on the desktop. Users can easily switch between these windows and work with multiple applications at once, enhancing productivity and multitasking capabilities.

Windowing provides the functionality to display and manage several applications concurrently, giving users the flexibility to interact with different programs without needing to close one to access another. This is particularly beneficial for tasks that require reference between two or more applications, such as comparing documents or transferring data.

While multithreading refers to the ability of a single program to execute multiple threads (which can improve the efficiency of a single application), it does not directly pertain to viewing multiple programs. Virtualization relates to creating virtual instances of operating systems or hardware platforms, enabling multiple operating systems to run on a single physical machine, but it does not specifically address the viewing of applications. Databases involve structured data storage and management and are not related to the visual interface managing multiple programs on a screen.