What is the difference between a semaphore and a lock in Java?

What is the difference between a semaphore and a lock in Java?

In Java, a lock is a synchronization mechanism that allows only one thread to access a resource at a time, while a semaphore can allow multiple threads to access a resource up to a specified limit.

Can you give an example of when to use a semaphore instead of a lock?

Sure! Use a semaphore when you want to limit the number of threads accessing a resource, like a connection pool, whereas a lock is suitable for exclusive access to a single resource.

Are there any performance differences between using a semaphore and a lock?

Yes, semaphores can be more efficient in scenarios where multiple threads can work concurrently, while locks may introduce more overhead due to their exclusive nature.

What are the potential drawbacks of using semaphores?

Drawbacks of semaphores include complexity in managing the count and potential for deadlocks if not handled properly.