Gain insights into the C++ keyword 'const,' its usage in various contexts, and implications when returning pointers and references. Learn about preventing accidental data changes.

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In this course, you will learn about the C++ keyword const and its behaviour under different usage conditions, including local, global and static contexts. This course will help you to understand const and its implications when you attempt to return pointers and references in C++. By the end of the course, you will have a solid grip on const and its usage in preventing any accidental change of data.

Secure Coding Practices in C++: A Deep Dive into const

In this chapter, we explored how to use smart pointers and `const`. We learned what it means to have a `const` smart pointer or a smart pointer to a `const` value.

* When smart pointers are passed by `const` reference, it's usually because many developers don't understand the implications.

* Passing smart pointers by reference doesn’t share or give ownership. It might lead to situations where we have a valid pointer, but the underlying object was already destroyed.

* Smart pointers should be passed around by value in general, but there are some exceptional cases when it’s acceptable or desirable to pass by reference and reap the performance gains.

Get a recap of all the concepts learned in this chapter.

Introduction

Arguments using const

Local Variables

Local Members

Functions

Return Types

const Parameters

const and Smart Pointers

Rvalue References

Summary

Key Takeaways