Property Modifier

Question

I have a property with read/write capability. This particular property points to the log file. What I wanted to know is what is the best modifier to attach to my property set so that no one can modify it? Example: public static string writeToFile { get; internal set; } or public static string writeToFile { get; protected set; } Is one of these better than the other? Or is there a better way to protect set?

Vulpes · Answer

You could achieve virtually the same thing as Michal has done with a 'normal' property by making the setter of the 'automatic' property private: public static string writeToFile { get; private set; } The only difference is that the property would have a default value of null rather than an empty string. In C# 6. 0 you'll be able to do this instead: public static string writeToFile{ get; } = ; but we'll have to wait a bit longer to use that :)

Vulpes · Answer

That's right. In fact I think that's how read-only automatic properties will work in C# 6.0. The compiler generated backing field for the property will be marked 'readonly' though this will only be evident if you're accessing it using reflection.

Michal Habalcik · Answer

if you mark the variable readonly once set noone is able to change it

Michal Habalcik · Answer

what exactly do you mean by not modify it? Did you think about not exposing the setter at all? Something like: private static string _whatever = String.Empty; public static string writeToFile { get { return _whatever; } }

Marc · Answer

thanks guys!

Marc · Answer

Thanks for the help guys! I know I can set it to private and not allow anyone to see the variable but is there a modifier so that the variable can't be changed at runtime?

Marc · Answer

thanks Michal. Don't know what I was thinking there