Classes

C# Interfaces

Defining Interfaces

C# interfaces define contracts with default implementations.

What is an Interface in C#?

In C#, an interface is a contract that defines a set of methods and properties that the implementing class or struct must adhere to. Interfaces enable you to define functionality without implementing it, allowing different classes to implement the interface in their own way.

Implementing an Interface

When a class or struct implements an interface, it must provide concrete implementations of all the interface's methods and properties. This ensures that the class or struct adheres to the contract defined by the interface.

Default Implementations in Interfaces

Starting from C# 8.0, interfaces can include default implementations. This allows you to provide a default behavior for a method, which can be overridden by implementing classes as needed.

In the above example, the Stop method has a default implementation. Implementing classes can choose to override this method to provide their own implementation.

Practical Use Cases for Interfaces

Interfaces are particularly useful in scenarios where you want to define a common set of functionalities across different classes. This is often seen in application frameworks, libraries, and services where extensibility and flexibility are key.

  • Decoupling Components: By programming to an interface, components can be swapped easily without affecting the system.
  • Dependency Injection: Interfaces are central to dependency injection, allowing different implementations to be injected at runtime.

Conclusion

C# interfaces provide a powerful way to define contracts within your codebase. With the advent of default implementations, they offer even more flexibility, allowing shared logic while maintaining the ability to enforce specific implementations. Understanding how to effectively leverage interfaces is crucial for creating robust and maintainable applications.

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