What are the differences between a class and a struct in programming?

What are the differences between a class and a struct in programming?

In programming, particularly in languages like C++ and C#, the main differences are: 1. Default access modifiers: classes default to private, while structs default to public. 2. Inheritance: classes support inheritance, while structs do not. 3. Memory allocation: classes are typically allocated on the heap, while structs are allocated on the stack.

Can you explain why the default access modifier matters?

Sure! The default access modifier determines the visibility of the members of a class or struct. If a member is private, it cannot be accessed from outside the class, which helps encapsulate data and protect it from unintended modifications. In contrast, public members can be accessed freely, which is often the case with structs.

Are there any performance differences between using a class and a struct?

Yes, there can be performance differences. Structs are generally more efficient for small data structures because they are allocated on the stack, which is faster. However, classes, being reference types, can be more suitable for larger, complex objects that require dynamic memory management.

When should I use a class instead of a struct?

You should use a class when you need features like inheritance, polymorphism, or when you are dealing with larger objects that require reference semantics. Structs are better for small, simple data types that are meant to be immutable.