Java Resources
Information Sites - Java Programs
Installations (Java Virtual Machines) - JavaScript
Introduction to Java
Java is a programming language currently most visible when you go to Java-enhanced Web pages.
Java is a Cross-Platform Environment
Java also can be used to create regular programs that can run on virtually any operating system. The only requirement is that a Java virtual machine (JVM) or Java Runtime Environment (JRE) has been created for the operating system. In fact, one of the primary reasons Sun developed Java was to have a cross-platform environment that merely required the writing of the operating-system-specific Java interface (the JVM or JRE).
Windows Users Note:
Microsoft's J-Script Java "alternative" is no longer supported. Although Sun has allowed for a transition period, J-Script is based upon Java 1.1 technology, which is now obsolete. You should download and install Sun's Java Runtime Environment.
- Those using Internet Explorer 6 with Windows XP will need to install Sun Java (the plug-in is included) to access Java-enabled Web sites and perform searches. Microsoft removed support for the Sun standard Java from XP.
- Transitioning from the Microsoft Java Virtual Machine.
- Upgrade to the Official Sun Java Platform.
JavaScript is not Java
JavaScript is a scripting language primarily used to make Websites dynamic (DHTML). It is not Java.
Java Information Sites
- Sun's Java Site - the originators of Java technology.
- The Java Lobby is a non-profit organization working to promote and support Java as a cross-platform solution.
- The History of Java Technology.
- ITtoolbox Java - content, community, and service for Java professionals..
- Gamelan: Earthweb's Java Directory - one of the best Java sites.
- The comp.lang.java FAQ List is a Java FAQ list for the comp.lang.java newsgroups.
Java Security
“Since the inception of Java technology, there has been strong and growing interest around the security of the Java platform as well as new security issues raised by the deployment of Java technology.” — Sun's Java Security Architecture
Java Programs and Applets
The most common use of Java is still small programs called applets, but there are Java programs.
- Freewarejava.com has applets and other Java resources.
- Polarbar Mailer a 100% pure Java e-mail application that runs on all platforms supporting Java.
- JavaShareware.com for Java applications, applets, JavaBeans and more.
- IBM's Java-based Applications Page includes IBM applications and other technologies running under Java.
- IBM Java Developer Page.
- IBM's AlphaWorks New Java Technologies - IBM's cutting edge Java technologies.
- BlueJ is freeware used to teach object orientation with Java.
Java Runtime Environments
You can download the latest Java Runtime Environments (or Virtual Machines) for your operating system from these sites. Note that the references to Sun's Java 2 Runtime Environment actually are versions 1.2x and above. Because of the changes to coding that are available on the newer Java 2, you may need to use the oldjava startup command.
- Sun's Consumer Java Site or (Manual Download). Includes multiple operating system downloads. You can also test your installation.
- Java for Linux.
- Java for the Mac.
- The Sun Java Plug-in is not a JRE; it is a browser plug-in. It is currently installed with the JRE.
JavaScript
JavaScript is not Java. Java uses applets or programs to do its work while JavaScript is primarily used in creating rollovers and other effects on Websites. This information is included here because of confusion about the differences.
For more information about JavaScript and how to use it to enhance your Website, visit the Web Design Resources page.
Java and JavaScript are registered trademarks of Sun Microsystems, Inc.
www.RussHarvey.bc.ca/resources/java.html
Updated: July 23, 2010
