Modeled after C++ programming language, Java has actually been proven to be a cleaner and safer choice.  With this particular option, memory is handled automatically, which means the programmer never has to worry about any type of unused space.  Because this programming language is so versatile and easy to use, many people prefer using it over other types of programming languages.  While there are similarities with C++, there are also noted differences that include:

• Java is designed to handle command line arguments in a different way
• Multiple inheritance is not supported by Java
• Operator overloading is not allowed with Java
• Typedef and/or #def is not supported by Java
• Union, struct, and pointer types of data are not supported by Java
• Java offers a string class, which comes with the Java.lang package
• Built into the Java system is an automated feature that allows memory to be allocated and freed, which is known as “garbage collection”

Java was created specifically to work in two ways.  First, it works within a network environment and second, it contains a large class library, which is capable of handling all types of networking protocols to include HTTP, FTP, TCI/IP, and others.  Another benefit to using Java over C++ is that when it comes to handling data types, it is much more careful and will never allow memory to be overwritten or data to be corrupted with pointers.  Additionally, Java is not designed to support pointers, using only arrays.

As far as security, there are definite advantages associated with Java.  For instance, with this programming option, any type of points of entry that might be affected by Trojan horses or other viruses cannot be penetrated.  Then, this option was made knowing that applications will be transferred via network so safety measures have been built into the design.

Another huge advantage to Java over C++ and other programming languages is its portability.  In this case, the programming is architecturally neutral, which means levels of portability are much greater.  In other words, implementation dependent aspects of the program do not exist.  Developers also battle with certain issues of other languages such as writing programs that come out looking great in Windows.  With Java, this is never a problem.  In fact, Java also looks perfect on 10 UNIX platforms, as well as Macintosh.

Of course, the level of performance is one of the main considerations for people choosing Java over other possibilities.  The upside is that for interpreted byte codes, performance is high.  The only downside in this area is that most programmers would like to see this option as a compiled language instead of interpreted language but in any case, most agree that performance is high, making this an excellent option.

The dynamic features of Java also draw programmers to this programming language.  Designed to adapt to changing environments, making changes to a parent class in an existing application, and adding new instance variables and methods to the libraries are just a few of the benefits since the client application is not affected.  Even the ability to multithread using Java is a huge benefit in that a single program can do multiple tasks, not just one.

To work with website pages there are applets, which are simply types of Java programs.  This means that users can go to the internet, download the applets needed, and then run them from the computer.  All that the user needs is a Java-enabled web browser, which is common.  The result is being able to create interactive applets, having the ability to use built-in GUI, which has buttons, lists, text boxes, etc, and using the user’s computer to handle processing.

The interesting thing about Java is that there are many different applications/programs, depending on the need or type of business.  For example, for educational institutions or anyone who works with applications for educational purposes, there is an entire library of applets or applications specific to this purpose.  Therefore, no matter the industry, people will have a choice of the right solution, enjoying incredible benefits.

To see the list of options and versions for Java, people can visit the company’s home page at www.javaspot.com.  In addition to versions, applets, and applications, there is also a lot of helpful information to help developers get started or work through challenges.  In addition, people interested in using Java, many excellent books are available that cover every aspect imaginable with easy to read instructions.  For instance, the following are some of our recommendations:

• Java Now – Kris Jamsa
• Exploring Java – Josh Peck and Pat Niemeyer
• The Java Developer’s Resource – Prentice Hall
• Java by Example – Alan McClellan and Jerry R. Jackson
• Foundations of Java – Aaron E. Walsh
• Java in a Nutshell: Desktop Reference for Programmers – David Flanagan
• The Java Handbook – Patrick Naughton
• Writing Java Applets - Rodley