Google Releases C++ B-Tree Template Library
C++ B-Tree offers memory and time advantages over standard containers.
Google has announced C++ B-Tree, a C++ template library that implements ordered in-memory containers based on a B-tree data structure. This library provides the following containers: btree_map, btree_set, btree_multimap, and btree_multiset.
According to the website, C++ B-tree containers have some advantages over standard containers, which are typically implemented using Red-Black trees. B-trees keep disk seeks to a minimum, and C++ B-tree containers make better use of the cache. The announcement, posted on Google Open Source Blog says that, “for small data types, B-tree containers typically reduce memory use by 50 to 80% compared with Red-Black tree containers.”
The Google blog states, “B-trees are well-known data structures for organizing secondary storage, because they are optimized for reading and writing large blocks of data. But the same property that makes B-trees appropriate for use with databases and file systems also makes them appropriate for use in main-memory, just with smaller blocks.”
C++ B-tree containers do have some disadvantages. For example, modifying a C++ B-tree container will invalidate all outstanding iterators on that container. However, the library contains “safe variations” on the four containers to address this drawback. C++ B-tree containers have the same interface as the standard C++ containers.
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters
Support Our Work
Linux Magazine content is made possible with support from readers like you. Please consider contributing when you’ve found an article to be beneficial.

News
-
System76 Releases COSMIC Alpha 7
With scores of bug fixes and a really cool workspaces feature, COSMIC is looking to soon migrate from alpha to beta.
-
OpenMandriva Lx 6.0 Available for Installation
The latest release of OpenMandriva has arrived with a new kernel, an updated Plasma desktop, and a server edition.
-
TrueNAS 25.04 Arrives with Thousands of Changes
One of the most popular Linux-based NAS solutions has rolled out the latest edition, based on Ubuntu 25.04.
-
Fedora 42 Available with Two New Spins
The latest release from the Fedora Project includes the usual updates, a new kernel, an official KDE Plasma spin, and a new System76 spin.
-
So Long, ArcoLinux
The ArcoLinux distribution is the latest Linux distribution to shut down.
-
What Open Source Pros Look for in a Job Role
Learn what professionals in technical and non-technical roles say is most important when seeking a new position.
-
Asahi Linux Runs into Issues with M4 Support
Due to Apple Silicon changes, the Asahi Linux project is at odds with adding support for the M4 chips.
-
Plasma 6.3.4 Now Available
Although not a major release, Plasma 6.3.4 does fix some bugs and offer a subtle change for the Plasma sidebar.
-
Linux Kernel 6.15 First Release Candidate Now Available
Linux Torvalds has announced that the release candidate for the final release of the Linux 6.15 series is now available.
-
Akamai Will Host kernel.org
The organization dedicated to cloud-based solutions has agreed to host kernel.org to deliver long-term stability for the development team.