Handles in C: A Complete Guide

In C language, a handle is a reference to an object or resource, typically an integer or pointer, used to identify and access specific objects or resources. Handles are mainly used for operations and management of objects or resources.

The function of the handle includes:

1. Encapsulate and hide the specific implementation details of objects or resources to make the code more modular and maintainable.
2. Provide a unique identifier for objects or resources, making it easy to reference and access them in multiple places.
3. Manage and control the lifecycle of objects or resources, including their creation, usage, and destruction.
4. Provide an operation interface for objects or resources, allowing users to manipulate them through handles without needing to understand the underlying implementation details.
5. Support for sharing and concurrent access of objects or resources can be achieved through handles for sharing and synchronizing objects or resources.

Common handles include file handles, window handles, memory handles, etc. Handles are widely used in operating systems and graphical interface programming to manage and manipulate various resources.