.NET Guidebook

Basics

.NET Null Safety

Null Safety in .NET

.NET null safety uses nullable reference types with ? for safety.

Introduction to Null Safety in .NET

Null safety in .NET is a feature that helps developers prevent null reference exceptions, one of the most common pitfalls in programming. By utilizing nullable reference types, .NET provides a robust way to handle null values and improve code safety.

Understanding Nullable Reference Types

In .NET, nullable reference types allow you to explicitly define whether a variable can be null. This feature is controlled by enabling nullable context, which can be done at the project level or within individual files.

Using the '?' Operator

The ? operator is used to indicate that a reference type can be null. This operator is essential for defining nullable reference types, helping you avoid null reference exceptions by making it explicit when a variable can hold a null value.

Handling Null Values Safely

When working with nullable reference types, it's crucial to handle null values safely. This often involves using null checks or the null-coalescing operator ?? to provide default values.

Enabling Nullable Context

To fully leverage null safety in your .NET applications, you need to enable nullable context. You can do this by adding #nullable enable at the top of your files or by setting it in your project file.

Conclusion

Null safety in .NET is a powerful feature that helps you write safer and more reliable code. By understanding and using nullable reference types and the ? operator, you can significantly reduce the risk of null reference exceptions in your applications.

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