What is the difference between thread synchronization and asynchronous programming?

What is the difference between thread synchronization and asynchronous programming?

Thread synchronization is a technique used to control access to shared resources in concurrent programming, ensuring that only one thread can access a resource at a time. Asynchronous programming, on the other hand, allows tasks to run independently without blocking the main thread, enabling better resource utilization.

Can you give me an example of thread synchronization?

Sure! A common example is using a mutex (mutual exclusion) lock in a multi-threaded application. When one thread locks the mutex, other threads must wait until it is unlocked before they can access the shared resource.

What are the benefits of using asynchronous programming?

Asynchronous programming improves application responsiveness, allows for better resource management, and can handle multiple tasks concurrently without blocking the main execution thread.

When should I use thread synchronization instead of async?

You should use thread synchronization when you need to manage access to shared resources safely in a multi-threaded environment. Asynchronous programming is better suited for I/O-bound tasks where you want to avoid blocking.