Thread Synchronization Techniques and InterThread Communication

Java is a powerful, platform-independent programming language that provides built-in support for multithreading. Multithreading allows multiple threads to execute concurrently within a single program, improving performance, responsiveness, and resource utilization. However, when multiple threads access shared resources, problems such as data inconsistency, race conditions, deadlocks, and thread interference may arise.

To address these issues, Java provides thread synchronization techniques and inter-thread communication mechanisms. Thread synchronization ensures that shared resources are accessed in a controlled manner, while inter-thread communication allows threads to coordinate their actions and exchange information safely.

This document provides an in-depth discussion of thread synchronization techniques and inter-thread communication in Java, covering concepts, mechanisms, advantages, limitations, and practical examples. Thread synchronization is the process of controlling the execution of multiple threads to ensure that shared resources are accessed by only one thread at a time or in a defined order. It prevents thread interference and ensures data consistency.

Without synchronization, multiple threads may simultaneously modify shared data, leading to unpredictable results. Java provides several synchronization techniques, including:

Synchronized methods

Synchronized blocks

Static synchronization

Locks (java.util.concurrent.locks)

Volatile keyword

Atomic variables