IPC Messaging
This section covers the Windows API functions and concepts related to Inter-Process Communication (IPC) through messaging mechanisms.
Core Concepts
Messaging provides a way for processes to exchange data by sending and receiving messages. This is often achieved through message queues or specific message-passing APIs.
- Message Queues: A mechanism where messages are stored and retrieved asynchronously by different processes.
- Message Loops: The fundamental structure for Windows applications to process messages from the operating system and other applications.
- Message Structures: Defines the format and content of messages exchanged between processes.
Key API Functions
Explore the essential functions for implementing messaging-based IPC.
| Function Name | Description |
|---|---|
SendMessage |
Sends a specified message to a window or windows. This is a synchronous operation. Learn More |
PostMessage |
Places (posts) a message in the message queue of the specified window or windows. This is an asynchronous operation. Learn More |
CreateMailslotFile |
Creates a mail slot or opens an existing mail slot. Mailslots are a one-way messaging system. Learn More |
CreateFile |
Can be used to open or create communication resources like named pipes and mailslots. Learn More |
GetMessage |
Retrieves a message from the message queue. Learn More |
TranslateMessage |
Translates virtual-key messages into character messages. Learn More |
DispatchMessage |
Dispatches a message to a window procedure. Learn More |