What are the best practices for using finalizers in Java?

What are the best practices for using finalizers in Java?

Using finalizers in Java can be tricky. It's generally recommended to avoid them if possible. Instead, consider using try-with-resources or explicit cleanup methods.

Why should I avoid finalizers?

Finalizers can lead to unpredictable behavior, such as delayed resource release and performance issues. They also complicate garbage collection.

What should I use instead of finalizers?

You can use the try-with-resources statement for automatic resource management or implement a custom cleanup method that you call explicitly.

Are there any exceptions where finalizers might be useful?

In rare cases, finalizers might be useful for cleaning up native resources, but it's still better to use other mechanisms whenever possible.