java-design-patterns/singleton/index.md

---
layout: pattern
title: Singleton
folder: singleton
permalink: /patterns/singleton/
categories: Creational
tags:
 - Java
 - Gang Of Four
 - Difficulty-Beginner
---

## Intent
Ensure a class only has one instance, and provide a global point of
access to it.

![alt text](./etc/singleton_1.png "Singleton")

## Applicability
Use the Singleton pattern when

* there must be exactly one instance of a class, and it must be accessible to clients from a well-known access point
* when the sole instance should be extensible by subclassing, and clients should be able to use an extended instance without modifying their code

## Typical Use Case

* the logging class
* managing a connection to a database
* file manager

## Real world examples

* [java.lang.Runtime#getRuntime()](http://docs.oracle.com/javase/8/docs/api/java/lang/Runtime.html#getRuntime%28%29)

## Credits

* [Design Patterns: Elements of Reusable Object-Oriented Software](http://www.amazon.com/Design-Patterns-Elements-Reusable-Object-Oriented/dp/0201633612)