What are some common synchronization techniques in C++ threading?

What are some common synchronization techniques in C++ threading?

In C++, common synchronization techniques include mutexes, condition variables, and semaphores. Mutexes prevent data races by allowing only one thread to access a resource at a time.

Can you explain how a mutex works?

A mutex (mutual exclusion) is a locking mechanism that ensures that only one thread can access a resource at a time. When a thread locks a mutex, other threads trying to lock it will be blocked until the mutex is unlocked.

What is a condition variable and when should I use it?

A condition variable is used for signaling between threads. It allows threads to wait for certain conditions to be met before proceeding, which is useful for coordinating actions between threads.

Are there any performance considerations when using these techniques?

Yes, using synchronization techniques can introduce overhead. It's important to minimize the time a mutex is held and to avoid unnecessary locking to maintain performance.