What is std::shared_mutex in C++?

Can you explain what std::shared_mutex is in C++?

Sure! std::shared_mutex is a synchronization primitive that allows multiple threads to read shared data concurrently while ensuring exclusive access for writing.

How does it differ from std::mutex?

The main difference is that std::mutex allows only one thread to access the resource at a time, while std::shared_mutex allows multiple threads to read simultaneously, but only one thread can write.

When should I use std::shared_mutex?

You should use std::shared_mutex when you have a scenario where reads are more frequent than writes, allowing for better performance.

Can you give an example of its usage?

Certainly! Here's a simple example: you can use std::shared_mutex to protect a shared resource like a vector, allowing multiple threads to read from it while ensuring that only one thread can modify it at a time.