Is Java still free?

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Java Licensing Overview
  • 1. Oracle JDK and Licensing
  • 2. OpenJDK
• Practical Implications for Developers
  • Example 1: Choosing Between Oracle JDK and OpenJDK
  • Example 2: Enterprise Use Cases
• Conclusion

Introduction

As one of the most widely used programming languages, Java's licensing and availability have been a topic of interest for developers and organizations. Since Oracle's changes to Java licensing in 2019, many have wondered about the current status of Java and whether it is still free to use. This guide clarifies the situation regarding Java's availability and licensing options.

Java Licensing Overview

1. Oracle JDK and Licensing

Oracle JDK (Java Development Kit) was previously available for free, but since the release of JDK 11, Oracle changed its licensing model. As of now:

• Commercial Use: The Oracle JDK is no longer free for commercial use. Organizations that require Oracle's official distribution for production environments need to purchase a subscription.
• Personal Use: Individuals can still use Oracle JDK for personal use without a fee, but this may not cover all scenarios.

2. OpenJDK

OpenJDK is the open-source implementation of the Java Platform, Standard Edition. It is completely free to use, and many developers opt for OpenJDK as an alternative to Oracle JDK.

• Fully Functional: OpenJDK includes all the necessary components for developing Java applications and is compatible with Oracle JDK.
• Community Support: OpenJDK is supported by a robust community and is frequently updated with the latest features and security patches.

Practical Implications for Developers

Example 1: Choosing Between Oracle JDK and OpenJDK

A small startup may decide to use OpenJDK for their applications to avoid licensing costs while benefiting from a fully functional Java development environment. They can easily switch to Oracle JDK later if their needs change.

Example 2: Enterprise Use Cases

A large corporation might choose to invest in Oracle JDK for the added support and features that come with the subscription, while a developer working on personal projects can freely use OpenJDK without any restrictions.

Conclusion

While Oracle's JDK is no longer free for commercial use, Java is still available for free through OpenJDK, making it accessible for individual developers and organizations alike. Choosing between Oracle JDK and OpenJDK will depend on specific project needs, support requirements, and budget considerations. Developers can confidently use either option, ensuring they have the tools necessary to create robust Java applications without incurring unnecessary costs.