As a Java developer or enthusiast, you’re likely no stranger to the Java Virtual Machine (JVM). The JVM is the backbone of the Java ecosystem, allowing you to run Java applications on any platform that supports it. But have you ever wondered what version of JVM you’re running on your Windows machine? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of JVM versions, explore the different types of JVMs, and provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to check your JVM version on Windows.
Understanding JVM Versions
Before we dive into the process of checking your JVM version, it’s essential to understand the different types of JVMs and their versions. The JVM is constantly evolving, with new versions being released regularly. Each version brings new features, improvements, and bug fixes.
The JVM version is typically represented by a series of numbers, such as 1.8.0_202 or 11.0.2. The first number represents the major version, while the subsequent numbers represent the minor version and the build number. For example, in the version 1.8.0_202, 1 is the major version, 8 is the minor version, and 202 is the build number.
Major JVM Versions
There have been several major JVM versions released over the years, each with its own set of features and improvements. Some of the most notable major JVM versions include:
- Java 8 (1.8): Released in 2014, Java 8 is one of the most widely used JVM versions. It introduced several significant features, including lambda expressions, method references, and the Stream API.
- Java 11 (11.0): Released in 2018, Java 11 is a long-term support (LTS) version, which means it will receive updates and support for several years. It introduced several new features, including the var keyword, the HTTP client API, and the Java Flight Recorder.
- Java 14 (14.0): Released in 2020, Java 14 is a non-LTS version, which means it will only receive updates for a short period. It introduced several new features, including pattern matching for instanceof, the switch expression, and the Records API.
Checking Your JVM Version On Windows
Now that we’ve covered the basics of JVM versions, let’s move on to the process of checking your JVM version on Windows. There are several ways to do this, and we’ll cover the most common methods.
Method 1: Using The Command Prompt
One of the easiest ways to check your JVM version is by using the Command Prompt. Here’s how:
- Open the Command Prompt on your Windows machine. You can do this by searching for “cmd” in the Start menu or by pressing the Windows key + R and typing “cmd”.
- Type the following command and press Enter:
java -version - The Command Prompt will display the version of the JVM that’s currently installed on your machine.
Method 2: Using The Java Control Panel
Another way to check your JVM version is by using the Java Control Panel. Here’s how:
- Open the Java Control Panel on your Windows machine. You can do this by searching for “Java Control Panel” in the Start menu or by navigating to the Control Panel and clicking on the “Java” icon.
- Click on the “About” tab.
- The Java Control Panel will display the version of the JVM that’s currently installed on your machine.
Method 3: Using The System Properties
You can also check your JVM version by using the System Properties. Here’s how:
- Open the System Properties on your Windows machine. You can do this by searching for “System Properties” in the Start menu or by pressing the Windows key + Pause/Break.
- Click on the “Advanced” tab.
- Click on the “Environment Variables” button.
- In the “System Variables” section, scroll down and look for the “JAVA_HOME” variable.
- The value of the “JAVA_HOME” variable will display the path to the JVM installation directory, which includes the version number.
Conclusion
In conclusion, checking your JVM version on Windows is a straightforward process that can be done using several methods. By understanding the different types of JVMs and their versions, you can ensure that you’re running the latest and greatest version of the JVM on your machine. Whether you’re a Java developer or enthusiast, knowing your JVM version is essential for ensuring that your Java applications run smoothly and efficiently.
By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily check your JVM version on Windows and stay up-to-date with the latest JVM releases. Happy coding!
What Is JVM And Why Is It Important To Know Its Version?
JVM stands for Java Virtual Machine, which is a software program that runs Java bytecode on a computer. Knowing the version of JVM installed on your Windows system is important because it can affect the compatibility and performance of Java-based applications.
Different versions of JVM may have different features, bug fixes, and security patches. Some applications may require a specific version of JVM to run correctly, while others may not be compatible with the latest version. By knowing the version of JVM installed on your system, you can ensure that your Java-based applications run smoothly and efficiently.
How Do I Check The JVM Version On My Windows System?
To check the JVM version on your Windows system, you can use the Command Prompt or PowerShell. Open the Command Prompt or PowerShell and type the command “java -version” (without quotes). This will display the version of JVM installed on your system.
Alternatively, you can also check the JVM version by checking the Java Control Panel. To do this, go to the Start menu and search for “Java Control Panel”. Open the Java Control Panel and click on the “About” tab. This will display the version of JVM installed on your system.
What Are The Different Types Of JVMs Available?
There are several types of JVMs available, including the Oracle JDK (Java Development Kit), OpenJDK, and IBM JDK. Each of these JVMs has its own strengths and weaknesses, and some may be more suitable for specific use cases than others.
The Oracle JDK is the most widely used JVM and is available for free. OpenJDK is an open-source JVM that is also widely used, while the IBM JDK is a commercial JVM that is designed for enterprise use. Other JVMs, such as the Azul JVM and the SAP JVM, are also available.
Can I Have Multiple Versions Of JVM Installed On My Windows System?
Yes, it is possible to have multiple versions of JVM installed on your Windows system. This can be useful if you need to run different Java-based applications that require different versions of JVM.
However, having multiple versions of JVM installed can also cause conflicts and make it difficult to manage your Java environment. To avoid these issues, it’s recommended to use a Java version manager, such as the Java Version Manager (JVM) tool, to manage multiple versions of JVM on your system.
How Do I Update The JVM On My Windows System?
To update the JVM on your Windows system, you can download and install the latest version of the JVM from the Oracle website or other JVM vendors. Once you have downloaded the installer, run it and follow the prompts to install the new version of JVM.
Alternatively, you can also use the Java Update tool to update the JVM on your system. To do this, go to the Start menu and search for “Java Update”. Open the Java Update tool and follow the prompts to update the JVM.
Can I Uninstall The JVM From My Windows System?
Yes, it is possible to uninstall the JVM from your Windows system. To do this, go to the Control Panel and click on “Programs and Features” (in Windows 10/8) or “Add or Remove Programs” (in Windows 7).
Find the JVM in the list of installed programs and click on it to select it. Then, click on the “Uninstall” button to remove the JVM from your system. Note that uninstalling the JVM may affect the functionality of Java-based applications on your system.
What Are The System Requirements For Installing JVM On Windows?
The system requirements for installing JVM on Windows vary depending on the version of JVM you are installing. Generally, you will need a Windows operating system (Windows 10/8/7 or later), at least 128 MB of RAM, and at least 124 MB of disk space.
You will also need to have a compatible processor, such as an Intel or AMD processor, and a compatible graphics card. Additionally, you may need to have certain libraries or frameworks installed on your system, such as the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package.