C++: Async vs Thread

What are the main differences between async and thread in C++?

In C++, async is used for asynchronous operations, allowing you to run tasks in the background without blocking the main thread. Threads, on the other hand, are more low-level and require manual management.

When should I use async instead of threads?

Use async when you want to simplify code and avoid manual thread management. It's great for tasks that can run independently and return results later.

Can you give an example of using async in C++?

Sure! Here's a simple example:

#include <future>
#include <iostream>

int compute() {
    // Simulate a long computation
    return 42;
}

int main() {
    std::future<int> result = std::async(compute);
    std::cout << "Result: " << result.get() << std::endl;
}

What are the potential downsides of using async?

Some downsides include potential overhead from managing futures, difficulty in error handling, and the complexity of debugging asynchronous code.