Is using exit() the same as using return?

No, using exit() and return are not the same in computer programming.

Exit() vs. Return: Understanding the Differences in C Programming

In C and C++ programming, return is used within a function to return a value to the calling function. When a function reaches a return statement, it exits immediately and returns the specified value to the calling function. return can also be used to exit a function without returning a value by using the void keyword.

The exit() function is used to exit your program and return control to the operating system. The return statement is used to return from a function and return control to the calling function. If you issue a return from the main() function, you are essentially returning control to the calling function, which is the operating system. In this case, the return statement and exit() function are similar.

On the other hand, exit() is a function in the C and C++ standard libraries that terminates the entire program. It is typically used to indicate that the program has encountered an unrecoverable error or has completed its execution successfully. When exit() is called, the program terminates immediately, and all open files and streams are closed.

So, in summary, return is used to exit a function and return a value to the calling function, while exit() is used to terminate the entire program.