Semaphore (programming) - Semaphore Vs. Mutex

Semaphore Vs. Mutex

A mutex is essentially the same thing as a binary semaphore, and sometimes uses the same basic implementation. However, the term "mutex" is used to describe a construct which prevents two processes from accessing a shared resource concurrently. The term "binary semaphore" is used to describe a construct which limits access to a single resource.

In many cases a mutex has a concept of an "owner": the process which locked the mutex is the only process allowed to unlock it. In contrast, semaphores generally do not have this restriction, something the producer-consumer example above depends upon.