The JDK is the Java Development Kit, the full-featured SDK for Java.
It is capable of creating and compiling programs.
Why would you need the JDK then?
For full information and terms, refer to theOTN License Agreement for Java SE.
The latest version of Java is Java 24 or JDK 24 released on March 2025.
However, many versions of Java are actively maintained for compatibility purposes.
Oracle plans to maintain it until at least 2030.
Also, you should know that some applications might refer to Java 8 as version 1.8.0.
What is Java?
Java is a programming language and software platform.
What is Java JRE?
The Java Runtime Environment or JRE contains everything required to run Java applications on your system.
JRE cannot be used to create new programs.
What is Java JDK?
The Java Development Kit (JDK) is the full-featured software development kit for Java developers.
The JDK allows you to create and compile Java programs.
Do I need Java JRE or Java JDK?
Why would you need the JDK then?
Is Java free to use?
Yes, Java is free to use under the jdk.java.net license.
This means anyone can download it for personal or development use at no cost.
Oracle does charge for long term support, but this is optional.
What popular apps use Java?
The version number is 17.0.12.
New Features
security-libs/java.security
The -XshowSettings launcher has a new security category.
parameters from security properties, security providers and TLS related parameters are displayed with this option.
A security sub-category can be passed as an argument to the security category option.
