How do I avoid undefined behavior across architectures?

Ensuring consistent behavior across different architectures in C++ is critical to avoid undefined behavior, which can lead to unpredictable results. By adhering to best practices such as using fixed-width data types, avoiding type punning, and utilizing standard libraries, you can write portable and reliable code.

undefined behavior, C++ portability, architecture differences, fixed-width types, type punning, standard libraries, reliable code

            // Example of using fixed-width types for portability
            #include <cstdint>

            void exampleFunction() {
                // Use fixed-width integer types to ensure consistent behavior
                std::int32_t value = 42;
                std::uint8_t byteValue = static_cast<std::uint8_t>(value);

                // Avoid type punning through unions
                // std::union can lead to undefined behavior; instead, use memcpy
                std::uint32_t otherValue;
                std::memcpy(&otherValue, &value, sizeof(value));
            }
        

undefined behavior C++ portability architecture differences fixed-width types type punning standard libraries reliable code