What does "Linearizable" mean?
Table of Contents
Linearizable is a way to ensure that the operations in a system happen in a specific order, making it seem like they are done one after another, even if they are actually happening at the same time. This is important for keeping data consistent and reliable, especially in computer systems that handle many requests from users.
Why It Matters
When many people use a system at once, like a database, it can be hard to keep track of everything happening. Linearizable makes it feel like every user is interacting with a single machine that processes their requests step by step. This helps users trust that they are seeing the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Challenges
Implementing linearizability can slow down the system because it takes extra time to make sure everything is ordered correctly. Different methods can be used to improve how quickly the system can read data, but choosing the right method can be tough, especially if the way people use the system changes over time.
Solutions
To tackle these challenges, some new methods allow the system to switch between different reading strategies. This way, the system can adapt to changing needs and maintain good performance while still ensuring that all operations are linearizable.