What are data races in C++ and how can I prevent them?

What are data races in C++ and how can I prevent them?

Data races occur when two or more threads access shared data simultaneously, and at least one of them modifies it. To prevent data races, you can use synchronization mechanisms like mutexes, locks, or atomic operations.

Can you explain how mutexes work?

Mutexes, or mutual exclusions, are synchronization primitives that allow only one thread to 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 are some common mistakes when using mutexes?

Common mistakes include forgetting to unlock a mutex, leading to deadlocks, or using a mutex in a way that doesn't protect the shared resource properly.

Are there alternatives to mutexes for thread safety?

Yes, alternatives include using read-write locks, condition variables, or lock-free programming techniques, depending on the use case.