Serialization - What is the advantage of using ObjectStreamField [] serialPersistentFields?

Question

For class that implements Serializable interface there are 2 ways to define what specific fields get streamed during the serialization:

1. By default all non-static, non-transient fields that implement Serializable are preserved.
2. By definning ObjectStreamField [] serialPersistentFields and explicitly declaring the specific fields saved.

I wonder, what is the advantage of the second method except for the ability to define specific fields order?

Answer 1

The 'advantage' is that it does what it says in the Javadoc: defines which fields are serialized. Without it, all non-transient non-static fields are serialized. Your choice.