What is the difference between thread join and detach in C++?

What is the difference between thread join and detach in C++?

In C++, join and detach are two methods used to manage threads. join waits for a thread to finish execution, while detach allows a thread to run independently.

Can you explain when to use each method?

Use join when you need the main thread to wait for the completion of a thread, ensuring resources are cleaned up. Use detach when you want the thread to run independently and don't need to synchronize with it.

What happens if I forget to join or detach a thread?

Forgetting to join or detach a thread can lead to resource leaks or program crashes, as the thread may still be running when the main program exits.

Are there any best practices for using threads in C++?

Yes, always ensure that threads are properly joined or detached, avoid sharing mutable data without synchronization, and consider using higher-level abstractions like std::async for easier thread management.