difference between jdk and jre

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Difference between JDK and JRE

When it comes to Java development, the terms JDK and JRE are often tossed around. They are integral components in the Java development process, but they do serve different purposes. In this article, we’ll explore the difference between JDK and JRE.

JDK

JDK stands for Java Development Kit. It is a software development kit used by developers to write and compile Java applications. It includes the JRE, which we’ll get to later, but it also contains additional tools like the compiler, debugger, and other tools required for developing Java applications.

The JDK is a complete package that offers everything a developer needs to develop and deploy Java applications. It is widely used by developers who need to work on large-scale applications. The JDK comes with a variety of libraries, frameworks, and tools that can speed up the development process.

JRE

JRE stands for Java Runtime Environment. It is a software package that allows users to run Java applications on their computer. The JRE contains the Java Virtual Machine (JVM) and other necessary libraries as runtime support for Java applications.

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The JRE is a lightweight solution that is designed only to run Java applications. It does not include the tools and libraries required for application development. Since JRE is a minimal version of the JDK, it is preferable to be installed in the production environment where applications will solely be deployed for end-users.

Key Differences

The key difference between JDK and JRE lies in their intended use. JDK is designed for developers working on the development of Java applications. In contrast, JRE is designed for end-users who need to run Java applications on their computer.

The JDK is a complete package that includes both development and runtime tools. It supports the entire process of Java application development from writing to deployment. On the other hand, JRE is a smaller package and serves only as a runtime environment.

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Conclusion

In summary, JDK and JRE are two essential components in the Java development process. While both serve critical roles, they do differ in intended use. JDK is for developers, while JRE is for end-users. While both packages may contain similar components, they differ in purpose and functionality. Choosing the correct package is crucial for an application’s success.

Table difference between jdk and jre

Features JDK JRE
Development Kit and Runtime Environment Yes No
Compiler Yes No
Debugger Yes No
Core Libraries Yes Yes
Additional Libraries Yes No
Javac tool Yes No
Javadoc tool Yes No
Java DB (Derby) Yes No
Mission Control Yes No
Deployment technologies Yes Yes
JavaFX Yes No

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