What are the best practices for using access modifiers in Java?

What are the best practices for using access modifiers in Java?

In Java, it's essential to use access modifiers to control visibility. Best practices include using 'private' for class members, 'protected' for inherited classes, and 'public' for APIs.

Why should I use 'private' instead of 'public' for class members?

Using 'private' encapsulates the data, protecting it from unauthorized access and modification, which enhances security and maintainability.

Can you give an example of when to use 'protected'?

Sure! Use 'protected' when you want to allow access to class members in subclasses but not from other classes. This is useful in inheritance.

What happens if I don't use any access modifier?

If no access modifier is specified, Java uses package-private access, meaning the member is accessible only within its own package.

Are there any exceptions to these practices?

Yes, sometimes you might need to use 'public' for constants or utility classes, but generally, it's best to follow the encapsulation principle.