| Lesson 3 | Java Language Requirements |
| Objective | Review the software and learning resources needed to begin working with the Java language. |
Java Language Requirements
Before starting this course, ensure you have the proper tools and setup for developing and running Java programs.
Choosing the Right Java Development Kit (JDK)
We recommend installing the latest Long-Term Support (LTS) release of the Java Development Kit (currently Java SE 23). Java is designed for strong backward compatibility, so you can safely run code written for earlier LTS releases such as Java 17 or Java 11.
Key Notes:
- You can compile and run older Java code on newer JDKs as long as you avoid APIs introduced after the target version.
- Preview features (
--enable-preview) are optional and not for production use. Use them only for experimentation. - Stay aligned with an LTS version if you are building long-lived applications.
Download Sources:
- Oracle JDK Downloads
- Eclipse Adoptium (Temurin) â open-source builds widely used in enterprise environments.
Installation and Verification
- Windows: Download the MSI installer, run it, and verify with
java -versionfrom Command Prompt. - macOS (Intel & Apple Silicon): Use the DMG installer. After installation, confirm with
java -versionin Terminal. - Linux: Install via package manager (e.g.,
sudo apt install openjdk-23-jdk) or download from Adoptium/Oracle.
Ensure your PATH and JAVA_HOME environment variables are correctly configured.
Recommended IDEs
While you can write Java in any text editor, a modern IDE will improve productivity:
- Eclipse IDE for Java Developers
- IntelliJ IDEA (Community Edition)
- Visual Studio Code with the Java Extension Pack
Optional Resources
A textbook is not required, but many learners benefit from a deeper dive into the language. One recommended title is:
âJava Language Featuresâ â covering modules, streams, concurrency, I/O, and lambda expressions with practical examples.
This book can serve as a helpful companion reference throughout the course.