In Unix , and in other computer multitasking operating systems , a daemon ( or \/ Ë deÉ mÉ n \/ ) is a computer program that runs as a background task . This task , rather than existing under the control of a user , is usually started as background processes . In Unix and other computer multitasking operating systems , a daemon ( or ) is a computer program that runs in the background , rather than under the direct control of a user ; they are usually initiated as background processes .