What are distributed locks and how do they work?

What are distributed locks and how do they work?

Distributed locks are mechanisms that ensure only one process can access a resource across multiple systems. They help prevent conflicts.

Can you explain why we need distributed locks?

We need distributed locks to manage access to shared resources in distributed systems, ensuring data consistency and preventing race conditions.

What are some common implementations of distributed locks?

Common implementations include using databases like Redis, Zookeeper, or etcd, which provide APIs for acquiring and releasing locks.

Are there any drawbacks to using distributed locks?

Yes, drawbacks include potential performance bottlenecks, increased complexity, and the risk of deadlocks if not managed properly.

How do I implement a distributed lock in my application?

You can implement a distributed lock by using a library or service like Redis with the SETNX command, which sets a key only if it doesn't exist.