NOTE
top
Interactive Linux process and host metrics for CPU, memory, load, task state, and quick triage.
This is a historical learning note and may contain outdated or incomplete understanding.
top provides a sampled view of load, CPU states, memory, and active processes/threads. It is useful for fast triage, but its values depend on the sampling interval and display mode.
Process CPU can exceed 100% in conventions where 100% represents one logical CPU, so interpret it with CPU count and tool settings. High load average also does not mean “CPU is 100% busy”; runnable and some uninterruptible tasks contribute to load.
Use deeper tools after top identifies the direction of the problem.