Java: A Relic Still in use Today


Background

Java was developed and released in 1990 and has come to be one of the most popular programming languages out there.

A part of this popularity comes from its effortless compatibility between Operating Systems. Each Operating System is different. At its simplest, different OS’s look different. Often times, the way you interact with them are different too. Each OS has a unique style and way of interacting with files, creating a unique end user experience. At its most complex, there are differences in fundamental background tasks that allow each Operating System to run at all. These changes add up, resulting in programs requiring special versions for each operating system.  

This is why download pages are typically organized by OS.

 

"Write Once, Run Anywhere" 

Java programs are different though. Usually, the code written for an app is translated into something physical hardware and the OS can understand. This is why different OS’s require different versions of a program. On the other hand, Java translates code into a special type of code which is fed into a “Java Virtual Machine” (JVM) for execution. On OS’s that have a supported JVM; such as: all of them; the program will run without issues. Feel free to read “JRE in Java” if you are interested in learning more. 

This way of handling code requires additional software. The JVM can only understand code created in a Java Development Kit (JDK).

Without a Java Development Kit, even code written in proper Java syntax will not work in a Java Virtual Machine. They are required, but ensure any code written works everywhere.

 

Installation Advice 

You will need the Java Runtime Environment: https://www.java.com/en/download/manual.jsp 

...and the Java Development Environment: https://www.java.com/en/download/ 

The two major OSs considered to be user friendly; Windows and MAC; are easier to set up. It is 2025, most people are at least familiar with clicking links. These two Operating Systems make the Java installation as simple as clicking a link. A setup wizard is involved, but it is straight forward. To be honest, even if you did not read anything, just clicking “Yes” or “Next” in the wizard is all you need to do. Java Just Works. 

Doing the same on Linux requires additional knowledge. Thankfully though, everything you could ever experience has either been recorded in Java’s Linux based, official Knowledge Bases or discussed in Forums. The skill required to get this started is higher than other Operating Systems, but not impossible. 

As for actually building a Java application, work can be done in text editors or your computer’s terminal. However, anyone you ask will recommend some type of Integrated Desktop Environment. There are many choices. Some are general purpose, while others are built with specific coding Languages or Industry workflows in mind. There is no rush in picking an IDE. Most of them are free, so if you don’t like one, simply install another (or just use Virtual Studio Code and call it a day). 

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