When should I use monitors instead of semaphores?

When should I use monitors instead of semaphores?

Monitors are typically used when you need to manage access to shared resources with a higher level of abstraction. They provide a simpler interface for synchronization compared to semaphores.

Can you explain the main differences between them?

Sure! Monitors encapsulate the shared resource and the synchronization logic, while semaphores are more low-level and require manual management of the signaling.

Are there any performance considerations I should be aware of?

Yes, monitors can be more efficient in certain scenarios because they reduce the complexity of managing locks. However, semaphores can be more flexible in some concurrent programming situations.

In what scenarios would semaphores be preferred?

Semaphores are preferred in situations where you need to control access to a limited number of resources, like a pool of connections.