How can I simulate interfaces in C++?

Question

Since C++ lacks the interface feature of Java and C#, what is the preferred way to simulate interfaces in C++ classes? My guess would be multiple inheritance o

Answer 1

Interfaces in C++ are classes which have only pure virtual functions. E.g. :

class ISerializable
{
public:
    virtual ~ISerializable() = 0;
    virtual void  serialize( stream& target ) = 0;
};

This is not a simulated interface, it is an interface like the ones in Java, but does not carry the drawbacks.

E.g. you can add methods and members without negative consequences :

class ISerializable
{
public:
    virtual ~ISerializable() = 0;
    virtual void  serialize( stream& target ) = 0;
protected:
    void  serialize_atomic( int i, stream& t );
    bool  serialized;
};

To the naming conventions ... there are no real naming conventions defined in the C++ language. So choose the one in your environment.

The overhead is 1 static table and in derived classes which did not yet have virtual functions, a pointer to the static table.