Which JDK build should I download & what are the benefits of each of them?
When it comes to downloading Java 11, you'll find two main types of JDK builds: the Oracle JDK and the OpenJDK. Both serve the same purpose but come with different licensing & support models.
Oracle JDK
This version is provided by Oracle and comes with commercial support for those who need it. It's ideal for businesses looking for long-term support, security updates, and performance enhancements for critical applications. The Oracle JDK is known for its stability and enterprise-grade reliability.
OpenJDK
On the other hand, OpenJDK is an open-source implementation of the Java Platform, Standard Edition. It's free to use and is a great choice for developers working on open-source projects or who do not require commercial support. The OpenJDK is regularly updated and contributed to by a vibrant community of developers, ensuring it stays up-to-date with the latest features and security patches.
Choosing between the Oracle JDK and OpenJDK often comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you're developing open-source projects or experimenting with Java, OpenJDK is a practical choice. For enterprise environments where support and stability are paramount, the Oracle JDK might be the better option.
Both builds offer the full suite of Java 11 features, so regardless of your choice, you'll have access to all the new enhancements and improvements Java 11 has to offer.
Java 11 Features
Java 11 introduces a series of new features & improvements that enhance the language's functionality and developer experience. Let's delve into some of the notable enhancements:
1. Running Java File with Single Command
Java 11 simplifies the execution of Java programs by allowing you to run a single-file Java program without compiling it explicitly. This feature is particularly handy for testing small snippets of code or for educational purposes.
// Example.java
public class Example {
public static void main(String[] args) {
System.out.println("Hello, Java 11!");
}
}

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To run this, simply use the command:
java Example.java

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This command compiles and runs the Example.java file in one go, outputting "Hello, Java 11!" to the console.
2. New Utility Methods in String Class
Java 11 introduces new utility methods to the String class, making string manipulation more intuitive and efficient.
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isBlank(): Checks if the string is empty or contains only whitespace.
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lines(): Returns a stream of lines extracted from the string, handy for processing multiline input.
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repeat(int): Repeats the string the specified number of times.
- strip(), stripLeading(), stripTrailing(): Strip whitespace from the entire string, the beginning, or the end of the string, respectively.
Example
Java
String str = " Java 11 \n is \n awesome! ";
System.out.println(str.lines().collect(Collectors.toList()));
System.out.println("Repeat: " + "Java11 ".repeat(3));
System.out.println("Strip: '" + str.strip() + "'");
Local-Variable Syntax for Lambda Parameters

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Java 11 enhances lambda expressions by allowing you to use the var keyword in lambda parameters, improving readability and consistency with local variable syntax.
(var s1, var s2) -> s1 + s2

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This makes the code more concise and clear, especially when using annotations with lambda parameters.
3. Nested-Based Access Control
Java 11 improves access control to nested classes, making it easier to manage and more intuitive. This enhances encapsulation and readability when dealing with nested classes.
4. JEP 321: HTTP Client
Java 11 introduces a new HTTP Client API that supports HTTP/2. This API is versatile, supporting synchronous and asynchronous programming models, making it easier to handle HTTP requests and responses.
Java
HttpClient client = HttpClient.newHttpClient();
HttpRequest request = HttpRequest.newBuilder()
.uri(URI.create("http://example.com"))
.build();
HttpResponse<String> response = client.send(request, BodyHandlers.ofString());
System.out.println(response.body());

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This example demonstrates a simple GET request, showcasing the ease of use and improved functionality of the new HTTP Client.
5. Reading/Writing Strings to and from the Files
Java 11 makes reading and writing strings to files more straightforward, eliminating the need for boilerplate code.
// Writing to a file
Files.writeString(Path.of("example.txt"), "Sample text", StandardOpenOption.CREATE);

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// Reading from a file
String content = Files.readString(Path.of("example.txt"));
System.out.println(content);

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This simplifies file operations, making code cleaner and more readable.
6. JEP 328: Flight Recorder
Java Flight Recorder (JFR) is a tool integrated into the Java Virtual Machine (JVM) that collects diagnostic and profiling data about a running Java application. Java 11 makes JFR available for all users, aiding in monitoring and diagnosing performance issues.
7. Local-Variable Syntax for Lambda Parameters
Local-variable syntax for lambda parameters allows you to use the var keyword to declare the types of lambda parameters, similar to how you use var for local variables. Introduced in Java 11, this feature simplifies code by letting developers avoid redundant type declarations. For example, instead of specifying the type of each parameter in a lambda expression, you can use var to make the code more concise and readable. This helps in reducing boilerplate code and maintaining consistency with local variable syntax.
8. JEP 321: HTTP Client
JEP 321 introduced a new HTTP Client API to Java, which became available in Java 11. This API provides a modern and efficient way to perform HTTP requests and handle responses. It replaces the old HttpURLConnection API with a more flexible and feature-rich client that supports both synchronous and asynchronous operations. Key features include support for HTTP/2, easier handling of cookies and redirects, and improved performance. The new API aims to make network communication in Java applications more straightforward and efficient.
9. JEP 318: Epsilon: A No-Op Garbage Collector
JEP 318 introduced the Epsilon garbage collector, also known as the No-Op garbage collector, as an experimental feature in Java 11. Unlike other garbage collectors, Epsilon does not perform any memory management tasks. It is designed to be used for testing and benchmarking, allowing developers to evaluate performance without garbage collection overhead. Epsilon is particularly useful for scenarios where memory management is handled outside the JVM or where garbage collection overhead needs to be minimized for performance testing.
10. JEP 320: Remove the Java EE and CORBA Modules
JEP 320, implemented in Java 11, removed the Java EE (Enterprise Edition) and CORBA (Common Object Request Broker Architecture) modules from the JDK. These modules were part of older technologies that are no longer actively used or maintained in modern Java development. The removal helps streamline the JDK, reducing its size and complexity. It also encourages developers to use more current and widely supported frameworks and libraries for enterprise and distributed computing needs.
11. JEP 329: ChaCha20 and Poly1305 Cryptographic Algorithms
JEP 329 introduced support for the ChaCha20 and Poly1305 cryptographic algorithms in Java 15. ChaCha20 is a high-speed stream cipher designed for secure encryption, while Poly1305 is a message authentication code used to ensure data integrity and authenticity. By including these algorithms, Java provides modern and robust cryptographic options that enhance security. ChaCha20 and Poly1305 are especially useful for applications requiring high performance and strong security guarantees.
12. JEP 315: Improve Aarch64 Intrinsics
JEP 315 focused on improving Aarch64 intrinsics, which are low-level operations used to optimize performance on Aarch64 (ARM 64-bit) architectures. The improvement includes enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of these operations, making it easier for Java applications to leverage the full potential of Aarch64 processors. This JEP aims to improve the performance of Java applications running on ARM-based systems by optimizing how the JVM interacts with the hardware.
13. JEP 333: ZGC: A Scalable Low-Latency Garbage Collector (Experimental)
JEP 333 introduced ZGC (Z Garbage Collector), an experimental low-latency garbage collector available in Java 11. ZGC is designed to handle large heaps and minimize pause times, making it suitable for applications requiring high responsiveness and scalability. It achieves this by performing most garbage collection work concurrently, allowing the application to continue running with minimal interruptions. Although it was marked experimental, ZGC represents a significant advancement in Java's garbage collection capabilities.
14. JEP 335: Deprecate the Nashorn JavaScript Engine
JEP 335, implemented in Java 11, deprecated the Nashorn JavaScript engine, which was part of the JDK since Java 8. Nashorn provided a way to execute JavaScript code within Java applications, but it has been replaced by more modern and actively maintained JavaScript engines like GraalVM. The deprecation of Nashorn indicates a shift away from older technologies and encourages developers to adopt newer solutions for integrating JavaScript with Java applications.
How to download Java 11 Free Version?
Downloading the free version of Java 11 is straightforward, especially if you opt for the OpenJDK version, which is available under an open-source license. Here's a simple guide to get you started:
Visit the Official OpenJDK Site: Start by navigating to the official OpenJDK website jdk.java.net. This site hosts the latest versions of OpenJDK, including Java 11.
Select Java 11
Look for Java 11 among the available versions and click on it. You'll be directed to a page with the Java 11 builds.
Download the Appropriate Build: Choose the build suitable for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux). Click on the download link, and the download will start automatically.
Install Java 11
Once downloaded, run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install Java 11 on your machine.
Verify Installation
To ensure Java 11 is installed correctly, open a command prompt or terminal and type java -version. If Java 11 is successfully installed, you should see the version number displayed in the output.
Remember, OpenJDK provides all the essential features of Java 11 free of charge, making it an excellent option for students, individual developers, and open-source projects.
Removed Features and Options
Java 11 also removes certain features and options that were deprecated in previous versions, such as the Java EE and CORBA modules, and the Nashorn JavaScript engine. This streamlining helps focus development on more widely used features and reduces the JVM's footprint.
Deprecated Features and Options
Some features and APIs have been marked as deprecated in Java 11, signaling that they may be removed in future releases. Developers are encouraged to avoid using deprecated features and to plan for their eventual removal.
Advantages of Java11
Java 11, released in September 2018, offers several advantages:
-
Long-Term Support (LTS): Java 11 is a long-term support release, meaning it will receive extended support and updates, making it a stable choice for enterprise applications.
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New Features: It introduces new features such as the HTTP Client API, improved performance with the Z Garbage Collector (ZGC), and new APIs like the String methods and Local-Variable Syntax for Lambda Parameters.
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Enhanced Performance: Java 11 includes performance improvements and optimizations, making applications run more efficiently.
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Reduced Memory Footprint: It comes with better garbage collection and memory management features, which help in reducing the memory footprint and improving application responsiveness.
- Deprecated Features Removal: It removes older, outdated features and APIs, streamlining the Java Development Kit (JDK) and encouraging the use of modern alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Java 11 features in older versions of Java?
Most Java 11 features are exclusive to this version & later. While some backports or polyfills might offer similar functionality, they can't fully replicate the experience. It's best to upgrade to Java 11 to take full advantage of these new features.
Why upgrade to Java 11?
Upgrading to Java 11 provides long-term support, improved performance, new features, and better security, ensuring a more stable and efficient development environment.
Is Java 17 faster than Java 11?
Yes, Java 17 typically offers better performance than Java 11 due to enhancements in garbage collection, optimizations, and new features introduced in subsequent updates.
Is Java 11 free for commercial use?
Yes, Java 11 is free for commercial use under the OpenJDK version, which is open-source. However, if you opt for the Oracle JDK, be aware of its licensing terms, as it might require a commercial license for certain uses.
How do I ensure my code is compatible with Java 11?
Testing your application thoroughly is key. Utilize tools like jdeps to analyze dependencies & potential issues. Consider modularizing your application to leverage Java's module system for better encapsulation and reliability.
Conclusion
Java 11 stands as a pivotal release in the Java ecosystem, offering a mix of innovative features, performance enhancements, and long-term support. Its introduction of features like running Java files with a single command, new String methods, and the HTTP Client API, among others, streamlines development workflows and opens up new possibilities for Java applications. Whether you're developing complex enterprise applications or working on personal projects, Java 11 provides a robust, efficient, and modern platform for your development needs. Embracing Java 11 means staying at the forefront of technology, ready to tackle the challenges of modern software development with confidence and expertise.
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