What are access modifiers

Access modifiers are keywords used in object-oriented programming to define how and where class members (fields, methods, properties, etc.) can be accessed. They are essential for implementing encapsulation and controlling visibility.

Common Access Modifiers in C#

1. public

Accessible from anywhere in the program. Used for methods or properties meant to be widely available.

2. private

Accessible only within the same class. Most restrictive and commonly used for data hiding.

3. protected

Accessible within the same class and its derived classes.

4. internal

Accessible anywhere within the same assembly/project.

5. protected internal

Accessible within the same assembly or in derived classes outside the assembly.

6. private protected

Accessible only within the same class or its derived classes in the same assembly.

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Example in C#

public class Person
{
    private string name;          // Only inside this class
    protected int age;            // This class + derived classes
    internal string address;      // Same assembly
    public string GetInfo()       // Everywhere
    {
        return $"{name}, {age}, {address}";
    }
}

Access modifiers help control data access, improve maintainability, and enhance security.