Getting Set Up with Java

So, you want to write programs in Java! Cool! You will need a few things installed on your computer or to use an online IDE to make writing programs easier.

Download the latest JDK and an IDE

1. You need to install the latest JDK to your machine. You can download the JDK from different places. The latest versions of JDK can be found at jdk.java.net. From this page, select the latest "Ready for use" JDK version.
2. You will have the option to download one of five versions. Choose the version for your operating system:
   • Linux/AArch64
   • Linux/x64
   • macOS/AArch64
   • macOS/x64
   • Windows/x64
3. Depending on the version you download, you will then need to either unzip or expand the file. You can save the content of these files anywhere on your computer.
4. There are several IDEs you can download to write, compile, and run your Java programs. There are IDEs that are made for educational purposes. Many of these IDEs are not compatible for the lasted JDK version. The following IDEs are up to date with the latest JDK and are suggested:
   • VS Code
   • jGrasp
   • Netbeans
   • intelliJ
   • Eclipse
5. If you are using Java features that are in preview, you will need to enable preview features first.

Online Java IDE

We recognize that you may be unable to download the JDK and an IDE. Many of the exercises included in the Learn and Practice sections include the Java Playground, allowing you to try code snippets in the browser. However, the Java Playground is not an IDE. Here is a suggestion of an online IDE that is current with the latest version of Java and being used in classrooms.

• Pickcode - Pickcode is an online IDE with a free plan that allows for creating unlimited Java projects and work is automatically saved on the cloud. Students can collaborate on projects in real time and create projects with multiple class files. With Pickcode’s paid plans, teachers can create custom lessons, manage assignments, and monitor student progress in real time.

Java FX

JavaFX is an open source, next generation client application platform for desktop, mobile, and embedded systems built on Java. JavaFX is a standalone component and builds on top of a JDK. You will need to install a JDK that works with the JavaFX version you plan to use.

1. Download the latest ready to use version here jdk.java.net.
2. From this page, you will have the option to download one of four versions. Choose the version for your operating system:
   • Linux/x64
   • macOS/AArch64
   • macOS/x64
   • Windows/x64
3. Depending on the version you download, you will then need to either unzip or expand the file. You can save the content of these files anywhere on your computer.
4. For more on JavaFX, check out these JavaFX tutorials.