What process combines data and code into a single object?

The process that combines data and code into a single object is known as encapsulation. This concept is fundamental in object-oriented programming and software design, where encapsulation allows objects to bundle their data (attributes) with the methods (functions) that operate on that data. This tight coupling of data and functionality promotes better organization, easier maintenance, and enhanced reusability of code, as it controls access and defines how the data can be manipulated.

In encapsulation, the internal state of an object is hidden from the outside world, only allowing access through well-defined interfaces or methods. This helps in protecting the integrity of the data and enforcing rules about how it can be accessed or modified.

This differs significantly from segmentation, layering, and packetizing. Segmentation typically refers to dividing data into smaller pieces for easier management or transmission, layering involves organizing systems in structured levels for modularity (commonly found in network protocols), and packetizing refers to the process of encapsulating data into discrete packets for network transmission. Each of these processes serves a different purpose and scenario in computing and networking, but none involve the direct integration of data and code like encapsulation does.