What is thread safety in C++ and why is it important?

What is thread safety in C++ and why is it important?

Thread safety in C++ refers to the property of a program or code segment to function correctly during simultaneous execution by multiple threads. It's important because it prevents data races and ensures that shared data is accessed in a controlled manner.

Can you explain how to achieve thread safety in C++?

You can achieve thread safety in C++ using various techniques such as mutexes, locks, and atomic operations. Mutexes prevent multiple threads from accessing shared resources simultaneously, while atomic operations ensure that certain operations are completed without interruption.

What are some common pitfalls when dealing with thread safety?

Common pitfalls include deadlocks, where two or more threads are waiting on each other to release resources, and race conditions, where the outcome depends on the sequence of thread execution. It's crucial to design your code carefully to avoid these issues.

Are there any libraries in C++ that help with thread safety?

Yes, C++11 introduced the <thread> library, which provides tools for managing threads, mutexes, and condition variables. Additionally, libraries like Boost also offer advanced threading capabilities.