What is the impact of locks on latency in computer systems?

What is the impact of locks on latency in computer systems?

Locks are mechanisms used to control access to shared resources in concurrent programming. They can significantly impact latency by introducing delays when multiple threads or processes attempt to access the same resource.

Can you explain how locks cause these delays?

Certainly! When a thread acquires a lock, other threads that need the same lock must wait, leading to increased latency. This waiting time can accumulate, especially in high-contention scenarios.

Are there alternatives to using locks?

Yes, alternatives include lock-free data structures, atomic operations, and using higher-level abstractions like semaphores or monitors, which can reduce latency.

How do these alternatives compare in terms of performance?

Lock-free structures often provide better performance in highly concurrent environments, as they minimize waiting times. However, they can be more complex to implement correctly.