What is static constructor, Is it possible to have a static constructor in class. If yes why we need to have a static constructor?
In C#, a static constructor is a special constructor that is used to initialize the static members of a class. It is also called a type initializer. The static constructor is automatically called by the .NET runtime before the first instance of the class is created or before any static member of the class is accessed. It is called only once during the lifetime of the program, and it cannot be called explicitly like a regular constructor.
The syntax for a static constructor is as follows:
class MyClass
{
static MyClass()
{
// Static constructor logic
}
}
Here are some key points to note about static constructors:
-
Static constructor execution: The .NET runtime guarantees that the static constructor is called before any static member is accessed or before an instance of the class is created. It ensures that the static members are initialized properly.
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Initialization of static members: Static constructors are commonly used to initialize static members of the class. This is important because static members are shared across all instances of the class, and they need to be initialized before any instance is created or accessed.
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Initialization control: The static constructor allows you to have control over the initialization process of static members. You can perform complex initialization logic, set default values, or load resources from external sources, all before the class is used.
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Parameterless only: Unlike regular constructors, static constructors do not take any parameters. They are parameterless and have no access modifier (i.e., they cannot be public, private, etc.).
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Execution order: If a class has a base class, the static constructor of the base class is executed first, followed by the static constructor of the derived class.
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Thread safety: Static constructors are automatically synchronized by the .NET runtime, ensuring that they are thread-safe during their execution.
Example of a class with a static constructor:
class MyClass
{
public static int StaticField;
static MyClass()
{
// Initialize the static field
StaticField = 42;
Console.WriteLine("Static constructor called.");
}
}
In the image below, you can observe the inclusion of both a static constructor and a public constructor:
Upon initializing the object, it becomes evident that the static constructor is invoked before the first object is created.
Subsequently, if we desire to create additional instances, the static constructor will not be invoked since it is only called once.
In summary, a static constructor in C# allows you to initialize static members of a class before any instance is created or accessed. It provides control over the static member initialization process and is useful for ensuring proper initialization and thread safety of static members.