How to Execute Java Program in Terminal
Executing a Java program in the terminal is a fundamental skill for any Java developer. Whether you are running a simple “Hello, World!” program or a complex enterprise application, understanding how to execute Java programs from the terminal is essential. This article will guide you through the process of executing a Java program in the terminal step by step.
Setting Up the Java Development Kit (JDK)
Before you can execute a Java program in the terminal, you need to have the Java Development Kit (JDK) installed on your system. The JDK includes the Java Runtime Environment (JRE) and the tools required to compile and run Java programs. You can download the JDK from the official Oracle website or use an open-source alternative like OpenJDK.
Writing the Java Program
Once you have the JDK installed, you can start writing your Java program. Create a new file with a `.java` extension, for example, `HelloWorld.java`. Open a text editor and add the following code to the file:
“`java
public class HelloWorld {
public static void main(String[] args) {
System.out.println(“Hello, World!”);
}
}
“`
Compiling the Java Program
To execute the Java program, you first need to compile it. Open your terminal and navigate to the directory where your `HelloWorld.java` file is located. Then, use the `javac` command to compile the file:
“`bash
javac HelloWorld.java
“`
If the compilation is successful, you will see a `HelloWorld.class` file in the same directory. This file contains the compiled bytecode that can be executed by the Java Virtual Machine (JVM).
Executing the Java Program
Now that you have compiled your Java program, you can execute it using the `java` command. In the terminal, type the following command:
“`bash
java HelloWorld
“`
If everything is set up correctly, you should see the output “Hello, World!” printed to the terminal.
Handling Errors
If you encounter any errors during the compilation or execution process, carefully read the error messages provided by the terminal. These messages can help you identify and fix issues with your Java program. Common errors include syntax errors, missing classes, or incorrect file paths.
Conclusion
Executing a Java program in the terminal is a straightforward process once you have the JDK installed and understand the basic commands. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can compile and run your Java programs with ease. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced developer, mastering the terminal is an essential skill for any Java programmer.
