What is the difference between threads and processes?

What is the difference between threads and processes?

Threads and processes are both units of execution in a program, but they differ in how they operate. A process is an independent program that runs in its own memory space, while a thread is a smaller unit of a process that shares the same memory space with other threads in the same process.

Can you explain how they share memory?

Sure! Threads within the same process can access shared data and resources, which allows for efficient communication and data sharing. However, this also means that if one thread modifies shared data, it can affect other threads, leading to potential issues like race conditions.

What are some advantages of using threads?

Using threads can improve performance by allowing concurrent execution, making better use of CPU resources. They also enable more responsive applications, as tasks can run in the background without freezing the user interface.

Are there any disadvantages to using threads?

Yes, managing threads can be complex. Issues like synchronization, deadlocks, and race conditions can arise, making debugging more challenging. Additionally, excessive use of threads can lead to overhead and reduced performance.