How to stop Linux threads cleanly
6 days ago
- #linux
- #syscalls
- #threading
- Thread termination in Linux applications requires careful handling to ensure cleanup operations like memory freeing and lock releasing.
- A simple approach involves using a per-thread boolean flag to signal termination, allowing threads to exit cleanly.
- Thread cancellation via `pthread_cancel` can be risky, potentially leaving resources unreleased if not handled carefully.
- Signals can be used to interrupt threads blocked in syscalls, but require careful management to avoid races and ensure prompt termination.
- The `rseq` syscall offers a way to atomically check termination flags before executing syscalls, though it's complex and requires inline assembly.