Banker's Algorithm
The Banker's Algorithm is a deadlock avoidance algorithm used in operating systems to manage resource allocation among multiple processes. It ensures that the system never enters an unsafe state by simulating resource requests before granting them, based on the current allocation, maximum needs, and available resources. This algorithm is named for its analogy to a banker managing loans to customers while avoiding insolvency.
Developers should learn the Banker's Algorithm when working on operating systems, concurrent programming, or resource management systems to prevent deadlocks in multi-process environments. It is particularly useful in scenarios where processes have varying resource needs and must share limited resources safely, such as in database systems, embedded systems, or distributed computing. Understanding this algorithm helps in designing robust systems that avoid resource starvation and deadlocks.