Can you explain mutexes and semaphores?

Can you explain mutexes and semaphores?

Sure! Mutexes and semaphores are synchronization primitives used in concurrent programming to manage access to shared resources.

What's the difference between a mutex and a semaphore?

A mutex allows only one thread to access a resource at a time, while a semaphore can allow multiple threads, up to a specified limit.

Can you give me an example of when to use each?

Use a mutex when you need exclusive access to a resource, like a file. Use a semaphore when you want to limit access, like controlling the number of threads accessing a pool of connections.

Are there any downsides to using them?

Yes, improper use can lead to deadlocks or resource contention, which can degrade performance.