Java access control across packages: You want subclasses in any package to have access to a superclass member. What is the most restrictive modifier that satisfies this?

Introduction / Context:
Java's protected access is designed for inheritance, allowing subclass access across package boundaries while remaining more restrictive than public.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We need member visibility in subclasses regardless of package.
• We prefer the most restrictive modifier that still works.

Concept / Approach:
protected provides access to subclasses in any package (and also to all classes in the same package). default does not cross package boundaries. private is class-only. public is more open than required.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Create a subclass in a different package and verify access to a protected member compiles.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
transient is unrelated (serialization marker); others either overexpose or underexpose.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing protected with default.

Final Answer:
protected