Introduction to Java
Introducing the interesting world of Java, a programming language that started off as "Oak" and has grown into a powerful, flexible platform with a vibrant ecosystem. Together, we will explore Java's history, editions, and indispensable technologies that have contributed to its prominence in the software development industry.
At Sun Microsystems, James Gosling and Mike Sheridan led the Java development team in 1991. The language, which was first called "Oak," was intended for embedded devices. In 1995, Java made its formal debut under the catchphrase "Write Once, Run Anywhere" (WORA), highlighting its groundbreaking platform independence.
Editions Unveiled
Java comes in four (4) main editions, each catering to different development needs:
Java Standard Edition (SE): The Core Java Experience
Foundation for desktop and standalone applications.
Includes APIs (Application Programming Interface) and Java Virtual Machine (JVM), .
The bedrock upon which other editions are built.
Java Enterprise Edition (EE): Empowering Enterprise Solutions
Extends Java SE with features for large-scale enterprise applications.
Provides APIs and a runtime environment for web-based, distributed, and multi-tiered systems.
Java Micro Edition (ME): Tailored for Resource-Constrained Devices
Designed for devices with limited resources, such as mobile phones and embedded systems.
Offers a subset of Java SE API optimized for constrained environments.
JavaFX: Elevating User Interfaces
Graphical and multimedia APIs for creating interactive user interfaces.
Integral part of Java SE, enhancing the capabilities of modern desktop applications.
The Heartbeat: API and JVM
All Java editions share common elements: an Application Programming Interface (API) and the Java Virtual Machine (JVM). The JVM's magic lies in making Java platform-independent, enabling seamless execution on different operating systems without recompilation. We will explore how it is able to achieve this in subsequent articles on this series.
Setting the Stage: Installing Java Development Tools
Java Development Kit (JDK)
As with any programming language, we need a piece of software to compile and execute our programs. Java Development Kit (JDK) is that piece of software. It comprises of Java Runtime Environment (JRE), Java compiler (Javac) and Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) like, pre-built Java classes and methods. To get this Java Development Kit (JDK), we simply do these:
Navigate to https://www.oracle.com/java/technologies/downloads/. The image below shows a section right on the URL link provided where you can select and download the JDK suitable for your PC.
As at the time of creation of this article, the latest version with long term support (LTS) is v21. When you are reading this, please install the latest version with LTS as it signifies a commitment from Oracle to provide extended support and updates for a more prolonged period.
Download the latest version suitable for your platform, Windows in my case.
Install the JDK, confirming success with "java --version" and "javac --version" in your terminal.
Integrated Development Environment (IDE)
For an exhilarating coding experience, we'll use IntelliJ IDEA. Feel free to choose your preferred IDE.
To download IntelliJ IDEA, simply head to: https://www.jetbrains.com/idea/download/. You could download a free community version or a paid version depending on your preference.
After downloading, go ahead and Install the IDE and get ready to embark on an exciting Java coding adventure.
Now you have some knowledge about the history of Java and its applications, and our JRE and IDE are all set up. For the upcoming parts, we delve right into understanding Core Java and its fundamentals. See you right there and happy coding!