Bit Masking is a technique used to manipulate individual bits of data using bitwise operators. It allows you to set, clear, toggle, or check specific bits within a value. By applying a “mask” (a bit pattern) to a number, you can perform various operations like isolating particular bits or modifying their values.
Common bitwise operators used in bit masking include:
- AND (&): To clear bits.
- OR (|): To set bits.
- XOR (^): To toggle bits.
- NOT (~): To invert bits.
Bit masking is widely used in low-level programming for tasks such as permissions, flags, and hardware control.