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The 30-Day .NET Challenge Day 13: ConfigureAwait(false)

by Sukhpinder SinghApril 1st, 2024

Too Long; Didn't Read

The article demonstrates the use of ConfigureAwait(false) efficiently to add deadlock-free asynchronous code. The method mitigates the risk of deadlocks when the synchronization context is blocked. Its advantages are particularly beneficial in non-UI applications and in library projects.

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Introduction

The article demonstrates the use of ConfigureAwait(false) efficiently to add deadlock-free asynchronous code.

Learning Objectives

How to use ConfigureAwait(false) instead of traditional async await programming
Why ConfigureAwait(false) is better

Prerequisites for Developers

Basic understanding of C# programming language
Basic understanding of asynchronous programming using async await

Getting Started

Consider an example where the user wants to load data asynchronously within a method.

    /// <summary>
    /// Old approach with classic async await 
    /// </summary>
    /// <returns></returns>
    public async static Task OldApproach()
    {
        await ReadDataAsync();
    }

In this approach, the await operator waits for ReadDataAsync and then proceeds with execution in the same synchronization context from where it began.

The aforementioned approach is used when the developer ensures that UI updates are executed in a separate thread. However, it may introduce potential deadlock risks.

Optimized approach with ConfigureAwait(false)

Let’s transform the above method using ConfigureAwait(false)

    /// <summary>
    /// Optimized approach with ConfigureAwait
    /// </summary>
    /// <returns></returns>
    public static async Task OptimizedApproachAsync()
    {
        await ReadDataAsync().ConfigureAwait(false);
    }

By adding this, the compiler doesn't add the execution in the same synchronization context, which reduces the chances of deadlocks.

The aforementioned optimization is beneficial in non-UI applications like library code, etc.

Why ConfigureAwait(false) is better

Please find below the benefits of using ConfigureAwait(false) method

Improved Performance

As the optimized approach doesn’t add the execution to the same synchronization context, it saves on extra overhead and helps create scalable applications.

Reduce chances of deadlocks

ConfigureAwait(false) method mitigates the risk of deadlocks when the synchronization context is blocked.

Conclusion

The ConfigureAwait(false) method in C# aims to craft efficient, deadlock-avoidant asynchronous code. Its advantages are particularly beneficial in non-UI applications and in library projects.