Java Encapsulation and Data Hiding

Encapsulation in Java

• Encapsulation is a concept that ensures "sensitive" data is hidden from users.

Data Hiding

• Data Hiding in Java involves hiding class variables from other classes, only accessible through methods of their current class.
• It hides implementation details from users and provides better management and grouping of related data.

Getters and Setters

• Getters and setters are public methods that allow access to private variables.
• Get method returns the variable value, and the set method sets the value.
• Syntax: methods start with "get" or "set" followed by the variable name with the first letter in upper case.

Benefits of Encapsulation

• Provides better control of class attributes and methods.
• Allows class attributes to be made read-only (using only the get method) or write-only (using only the set method).
• Offers flexibility, as changes can be made to one part of the code without affecting other parts.
• Increases security of data.

Disadvantages of Encapsulation

• Can lead to increased complexity if not used properly.
• Can make it more difficult to understand how the system works.
• May limit the flexibility of the implementation.