What are the best practices for using mutexes in C++?

What are the best practices for using mutexes in C++?

When using mutexes in C++, it's important to minimize the scope of the lock, avoid deadlocks, and prefer RAII for managing locks.

Can you explain what RAII means in this context?

RAII stands for Resource Acquisition Is Initialization. It ensures that resources are properly released when an object goes out of scope, which helps prevent deadlocks.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when using mutexes?

Common mistakes include holding locks for too long, locking in different orders, and forgetting to unlock mutexes, which can lead to performance issues and deadlocks.

How can I test my code for potential deadlocks?

You can use tools like thread sanitizers or static analysis tools to detect potential deadlocks in your code.