What are the best practices for using atomic operations in C++?

What are the best practices for using atomic operations in C++?

When using atomic operations in C++, it's important to ensure that you understand the memory model and the specific atomic types provided by the standard library.

Can you explain the memory model a bit more?

Sure! The C++ memory model defines how operations on shared data are ordered and how threads interact with memory, which is crucial for writing safe concurrent code.

What atomic types should I use for different scenarios?

You should use std::atomic<int> for integers, std::atomic<bool> for flags, and std::atomic<std::shared_ptr<T>> for shared pointers, depending on your needs.

Are there any performance considerations I should be aware of?

Yes, atomic operations can be slower than non-atomic ones due to memory synchronization. Always measure performance in your specific context.