Classes
C# Properties
Working with Properties
C# properties use get/set with auto-implemented backing.
Introduction to C# Properties
C# properties provide a flexible mechanism to read, write, or compute the value of a private field. They are a part of the C# language that allows developers to encapsulate data and integrate validation logic without exposing the internal implementation details. Properties act as a bridge between private fields and the outside world, using the get and set accessors.
Auto-Implemented Properties
In C#, auto-implemented properties allow you to create properties without having to define a backing field manually. The compiler automatically creates a private, anonymous field that can only be accessed through the property's get and set accessors.
Here's a basic example of an auto-implemented property:
Read-Only and Write-Only Properties
You can customize the accessibility of the get and set accessors to create read-only or write-only properties.
- Read-Only Property: Only has a
getaccessor. - Write-Only Property: Only has a
setaccessor.
Example of a read-only property:
Expression-Bodied Properties
Expression-bodied properties are a concise way to implement simple properties using a lambda expression. This feature simplifies the syntax for properties that return a single expression.
Example of an expression-bodied property:
Backing Fields and Data Validation
While auto-implemented properties simplify the declaration of properties, there are cases where you need to use a backing field. This is common when implementing validation logic or other business rules within the property accessors.
Here's an example with validation logic:
Conclusion
C# properties are a powerful feature that provides a layer of abstraction over fields, allowing for encapsulation and data validation. By utilizing auto-implemented properties, expression-bodied properties, and custom logic with backing fields, developers can effectively manage and manipulate data within their applications.
