Quick Java Questioin: protected access

sleight · 02-17-2007, 04:46 AM

Hi,

I'm new to Java (but not new to programming) and am a little bit confused, how Java handles the proteced modifier. What is the reason, why Java let's you access protected members even outside of the class-hierarchy? And what is the difference to public?

Code:

class A{
    protected int _i;
}


public class Main {
    public static void main(String[] args) {
        A a = new A();
	int i = a._i;  /* Ok! But why? And what is then the difference to public? */
    }
}

Thanks for your time

graemef · 02-17-2007, 06:48 AM

Normally Protected is only available within the class hierarchy, but if you are including the two classes in the same file then, if I remember correctly, it is considered to be in the same package which allows you to cross class hierarchies. Normally the two classes would be in different files and so their access would be restricted (unless class Main inherited class A)

sleight · 02-18-2007, 05:55 AM

Ah ok, thank you! I guess Sun will have its reasons for such confusing and "inconsistent" access modifiers..., even if I fail to see them. But nevertheless, I do understand at least the syntax now

Regards