When should I use a semaphore or a mutex?

When should I use a semaphore or a mutex?

You should use a mutex when you need to ensure that only one thread can access a resource at a time. Semaphores are useful when you want to control access to a resource that can be used by multiple threads, but with a limit.

Can you give me an example of when to use each?

Sure! Use a mutex for protecting a shared variable, like a counter. Use a semaphore for managing a pool of connections, allowing a limited number of threads to access them.

What are the performance implications of using one over the other?

Mutexes can be faster for exclusive access since they are simpler, while semaphores can introduce overhead due to their counting mechanism. However, the choice depends on your specific use case.

Are there any scenarios where using both is beneficial?

Yes, in complex systems, you might use a mutex to protect shared data and a semaphore to limit access to a resource pool, ensuring both safety and efficiency.