What is thread safety in C++ and how does std::atomic help?

What is thread safety in C++ and how does std::atomic help?

Thread safety in C++ refers to the property of a program or code segment to function correctly during simultaneous execution by multiple threads. The std::atomic library provides a way to manage shared data safely without using traditional locking mechanisms.

Can you explain how std::atomic works?

std::atomic provides atomic operations on variables, ensuring that operations like read, write, and modify are completed without interruption. This prevents data races and ensures consistency.

What are some common use cases for std::atomic?

Common use cases include counters, flags, and shared state management in multi-threaded applications where performance is critical and locking overhead should be minimized.

Are there any limitations to using std::atomic?

Yes, while std::atomic is powerful, it only supports certain types and operations. Complex data structures may still require locks for safe access.