Factory Patterns vs Singleton

What is the difference between factory patterns and singleton in design patterns?

Factory patterns are used to create objects without specifying the exact class, while singleton ensures a class has only one instance.

Can you give me an example of when to use a factory pattern?

Sure! Use a factory pattern when you need to create multiple instances of a class that share a common interface but differ in implementation.

And what about the singleton pattern? When should I use it?

Use the singleton pattern when you need to control access to a shared resource, like a configuration manager or a logging service.

Are there any drawbacks to using the singleton pattern?

Yes, it can introduce global state into your application, making it harder to test and maintain.