What is the difference between mutex and lock_guard in C++?

What is the difference between mutex and lock_guard in C++?

In C++, a mutex is a synchronization primitive that allows multiple threads to access shared resources safely. A lock_guard, on the other hand, is a wrapper that manages the locking and unlocking of a mutex automatically.

Can you explain how to use lock_guard with a mutex?

Sure! You can use lock_guard by including the header <mutex>. To use it, create a lock_guard object and pass the mutex to its constructor. This will lock the mutex, and it will automatically unlock when the lock_guard goes out of scope.

Are there any performance implications when using lock_guard?

Yes, using lock_guard can introduce some overhead due to the locking mechanism, but it simplifies code and reduces the risk of deadlocks.

When should I prefer mutex over lock_guard?

You should prefer mutex when you need more control over the locking mechanism, such as when you need to lock and unlock the mutex multiple times within a scope.