What is Java?
Java is a high-level, class-based, object-oriented programming language first released by Sun Microsystems in 1995 (now maintained by Oracle). It is one of the most widely used languages due to its portability, stability, and extensive ecosystem. Java code is compiled into bytecode that runs on the Java Virtual Machine (JVM), enabling the principle of 'Write Once, Run Anywhere' (WORA).
Key Features of Java
Important characteristics of Java include: - Platform Independent: Compiled Java bytecode runs on any JVM across operating systems. - Object-Oriented: Supports encapsulation, inheritance, and polymorphism. - Simple and Familiar: Syntax derived from C/C++ but without low-level complexities like pointers. - Secure: Built-in security mechanisms and runtime checks. - Multithreaded: Native support for concurrent programming. - Robust: Strong memory management, exception handling, and type safety.
Java Ecosystem
The Java ecosystem provides a complete development and runtime environment: - JDK (Java Development Kit): Tools for developing Java applications. - JRE (Java Runtime Environment): Components required to run Java programs. - JVM (Java Virtual Machine): Executes compiled bytecode. - Standard Library: Thousands of built-in classes and APIs. - Large Community: Active developer base and third-party libraries.
Common Applications
Java is used in diverse domains, including: - Enterprise systems and large-scale web applications. - Android mobile application development. - Desktop applications with graphical user interfaces. - Big data and scientific computing frameworks. - Embedded systems and IoT devices. - Banking, finance, and high-performance transaction systems.