Question
What is the default access specifier in Java?
// Example class to demonstrate default access specifier
class MyClass {
void display() {
System.out.println("Default access specifier in action!");
}
}
Answer
In Java, the default access specifier is package-private. This means that members (classes, methods, variables) without an explicit access modifier can only be accessed by other classes in the same package.
// Example of package-private access
class Test {
void show() { // Default access, only accessible within the same package
System.out.println("Hello, World!");
}
}
Causes
- The default access specifier is a way to restrict access to only those classes that are part of the same package.
- It is used to enhance encapsulation by limiting visibility.
Solutions
- To make a member accessible from any other package, explicitly declare it as public.
- For those members that should only be visible in the same class, use private, and for access within the same package and subclasses, use protected.
Common Mistakes
Mistake: Assuming that default access allows access from any class.
Solution: Remember that with default access, only classes within the same package can access the member.
Mistake: Confusing default access with private access.
Solution: Default access allows visibility within the package, while private restricts visibility to the defining class.
Helpers
- Java default access specifier
- Java access modifiers
- Java package-private
- Java visibility rules
- Understanding Java access modifiers