What is a read lock?

What is a read lock?

A read lock is a mechanism that prevents other transactions from modifying a resource while allowing multiple transactions to read it.

Why would I use a read lock instead of a write lock?

You would use a read lock when you want to allow concurrent reads without allowing any writes, ensuring data consistency.

Can you give me an example of when a read lock is useful?

Sure! In a banking system, if multiple users are checking their account balances, a read lock ensures they all see the same data without interference.

What happens if a write lock is requested while a read lock is active?

If a write lock is requested while a read lock is active, the write lock will be blocked until all read locks are released.

Are there any downsides to using read locks?

Yes, excessive use of read locks can lead to contention and performance issues, especially if many transactions are waiting for write access.