Your Guide to How To Install Java On Linux
What You Get:
Free Guide
Free, helpful information about Internet & Networking and related How To Install Java On Linux topics.
Helpful Information
Get clear and easy-to-understand details about How To Install Java On Linux topics and resources.
Personalized Offers
Answer a few optional questions to receive offers or information related to Internet & Networking. The survey is optional and not required to access your free guide.
How to Install Java on Linux: Methods, Versions, and What to Know First
Java remains one of the most widely used programming platforms in the world — powering everything from Android apps and enterprise software to development tools and web servers. On Linux, installing Java is straightforward once you understand the landscape, but there are enough variables — distribution, Java version, JDK vs JRE, package manager — that the "right" approach genuinely depends on your setup.
JDK vs JRE: What You're Actually Installing
Before running any commands, it helps to know what you're installing.
- JRE (Java Runtime Environment): Lets you run Java applications. If you're using software that requires Java — like a Minecraft server or a business application — this is often enough.
- JDK (Java Development Kit): Includes the JRE plus compilers and tools for writing and building Java programs. Developers need this.
Many modern guides recommend installing the JDK even for general use, since it includes everything in the JRE and avoids issues where certain applications expect developer tools to be present.
OpenJDK vs Oracle JDK
There are two major Java distributions you'll encounter on Linux:
| Distribution | License | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| OpenJDK | GPL open source | General use, most Linux distros |
| Oracle JDK | Commercial/free for personal use | Enterprise environments with Oracle support |
OpenJDK is the default choice for most Linux users. It's open source, actively maintained, and available directly through standard package managers on virtually every major distribution. Oracle JDK requires a separate download from Oracle's website and has licensing terms that matter for commercial deployments.
For most developers and general users, OpenJDK is the practical starting point.
Java Versions: Which One Matters
Java has version numbers that affect compatibility. The most important distinction:
- LTS versions (Long-Term Support): Java 8, 11, 17, and 21 are LTS releases. These receive security and maintenance updates for years and are the versions most production software targets.
- Non-LTS versions: Released between LTS cycles, these are useful for testing new features but not ideal for stable environments.
Java 17 and Java 21 are the current LTS versions most commonly recommended for new projects. Java 11 still sees wide use in enterprise environments. Java 8, while aging, remains present in legacy systems. 🔢
Installing Java on Ubuntu and Debian-Based Distros
Ubuntu and Debian use apt as their package manager. Installing OpenJDK is a few commands: