EOFException

EOFException is a checked exception in Java that is thrown when an input operation reaches the end of a file or stream unexpectedly. This typically occurs when reading from a data source, such as a file or a network connection, and the program attempts to read more data than is available.

The exception is part of the java.io package and is a subclass of IOException. It signifies that the end of the input stream has been reached before all requested data has been read. This can happen for several reasons. For instance, if a program is expecting a specific amount of data, but the source stream terminates prematurely, an EOFException will be thrown. This might occur if a file is corrupted or truncated, or if a network connection is closed by the other end before all data is sent.

When an EOFException is encountered, it usually indicates a problem with the data source or the way data is being read. Programs that handle input streams should be prepared to catch this exception and manage the situation appropriately. This might involve signaling an error, attempting to recover if possible, or simply closing the stream gracefully. Understanding the conditions that lead to EOFException is crucial for robust input stream handling in Java applications.