How can I implement lock-free data structures in C++?

How can I implement lock-free data structures in C++?

To implement lock-free data structures in C++, you can use atomic operations provided by the C++ standard library. Would you like an example?

Yes, please provide an example of a lock-free stack.

Here's a simple implementation of a lock-free stack using atomic pointers. You can use std::atomic for the head pointer.

What are the advantages of using lock-free data structures?

Lock-free data structures can improve performance by reducing contention and avoiding deadlocks, especially in multi-threaded environments.

Are there any downsides to using them?

Yes, they can be more complex to implement and may require a deeper understanding of memory models and atomic operations.