What Does System Request (SysRq) Mean?
On computer keyboards, system request (SysRq) is a key which has no standard use. It was initially provided as a special key for directly invoking low-level operating system functionalities, especially for switching between different operating systems. It was mostly used for that purpose in the early 1980s, but later fell into disuse.
Techopedia Explains System Request (SysRq)
Nothing is stored in the keyboard buffer when the system request key is pressed, a property which is not found in any other keys on the keyboard. The system request key was first introduced by IBM, and it triggered a special BIOS routine to signal the operating system whenever the system request key was pressed. It helped in encouraging a multitasking environment for users.
