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 learned that `const` for class type parameters should be used with references or pointers to avoid copying and accidentally modifying the original object. We also learned odd behaviors of C++ regarding function overloads or their lack when `const` is used for the parameters.


* Use `const` for primitive data-type parameters when we want to show they won’t get modified.

* Use `const&` for object-type parameters when we have to avoid copying and modifying them.

* Be aware that `const` qualification might be ignored, and when we create two overloads, the compiler will not differentiate them, and the compilation will fail.

* Declarations with non-`const` parameters might match definitions with `const` parameters. However, don’t rely on this feature because it degrades readability

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