How does std::shared_ptr handle thread safety in C++?

How does std::shared_ptr handle thread safety in C++?

std::shared_ptr is thread-safe when it comes to managing the reference count. Multiple threads can safely share a std::shared_ptr instance, but the actual object it points to is not thread-safe by default.

What happens if two threads try to modify the same object pointed to by shared_ptr?

If two threads modify the same object without proper synchronization, it can lead to data races and undefined behavior. You should use mutexes or other synchronization mechanisms to protect shared data.

Can I use std::shared_ptr with std::mutex for thread safety?

Yes, you can use std::shared_ptr in conjunction with std::mutex to ensure that access to the shared object is thread-safe. Just lock the mutex before accessing or modifying the object.

Are there any alternatives to shared_ptr for thread-safe operations?

Yes, you can consider using std::unique_ptr with std::mutex for exclusive ownership or std::atomic for atomic operations, depending on your use case.