What is the difference between synchronization and locking?

Can you explain the difference between synchronization and locking in programming?

Sure! Synchronization is a broader concept that ensures that multiple threads can operate safely on shared data. Locking is a specific mechanism used to achieve synchronization by restricting access to a resource.

So, is locking always necessary for synchronization?

Not always. While locking is a common way to achieve synchronization, there are other methods like using atomic variables or higher-level constructs like semaphores.

What are the potential downsides of using locks?

Using locks can lead to issues like deadlocks, where two or more threads are waiting indefinitely for each other to release locks, and it can also reduce performance due to contention.

Are there alternatives to locking that can be used?

Yes, alternatives include using lock-free data structures, optimistic concurrency control, and read-write locks, which can help improve performance in certain scenarios.