Understanding the Difference Between session.get() and session.load() in Hibernate

When working with Hibernate, it's essential to distinguish between session.get() and session.load() methods as they serve slightly different purposes.

The Focus Keyword: Hibernate session.get() vs session.load()

session.get():

The session.get() method in Hibernate is used to retrieve an entity from the database based on its unique identifier. It hits the database immediately and returns null if the entity is not found. This method is suitable for scenarios where you expect either the entity to exist in the database or return null.

session.load():

In contrast, the session.load() method in Hibernate does not immediately hit the database. It returns a proxy object that implements the specified entity interface but does not actually fetch the entity data until it is accessed. This method is efficient when you are sure the entity exists and need to lazy-load the data.

Therefore, the key distinction lies in their database interaction behavior - session.get() fetches the entity immediately, whereas session.load() delays fetching until necessary.

By understanding the nuances between session.get() and session.load(), developers can make informed decisions on when to utilize each method effectively in Hibernate applications.