C++: Atomic vs Mutex - What's the Difference?

What are the main differences between atomic operations and mutexes in C++?

Atomic operations are low-level operations that ensure data integrity without locking, while mutexes are higher-level synchronization mechanisms that lock resources to prevent concurrent access.

When should I use atomic operations instead of mutexes?

Use atomic operations for simple data types and when performance is critical. Mutexes are better for complex data structures or when you need to protect multiple variables.

Can you give an example of when to use a mutex?

Sure! If you have a shared data structure like a list that multiple threads need to modify, using a mutex will ensure that only one thread can modify it at a time, preventing data corruption.

Are there any downsides to using mutexes?

Yes, mutexes can lead to performance bottlenecks due to thread contention and can cause deadlocks if not managed properly.