Static in the house - C++ tales #1

Short summary

This post explains C++ static variables, which persist for the entire program lifetime and retain values between function calls. Static class members are shared across all object instances, stored outside the class definition. Understanding static is fundamental for managing data lifecycle and symbol visibility in real-world C++ code.

• •Local static variables initialize once and persist between function calls, unlike automatic variables recreated each time
• •Static class members are shared by all instances and defined outside the class using the scope resolution operator
• •Static affects both storage duration and symbol visibility/linkage, forming the basis for many C++ design patterns

Generated with AI, which can make mistakes.