Java is a high-level, class-based, object-oriented programming language designed for platform independence. Its foundational principle, "write-once-run-anywhere," is realized through the Java Virtual Machine (JVM), which executes bytecode across diverse hardware and operating systems.

Key Java runtime and ecosystem components:

• Java Virtual Machine (JVM): Executes Java bytecode and manages memory (garbage collection).
• Standard Library and APIs: Rich set of built-in libraries for networking, concurrency, and I/O.
• Build and packaging tools: Maven, Gradle, and JARs for dependency management and distribution.
• Alternative runtimes and optimizations: OpenJDK distributions, ahead-of-time compilation, and tuned GC settings.

Java powers a vast ecosystem of enterprise applications, middleware, and Android apps. Its scalability, reliability and security make it a preferred mission-critical systems demanding high-performance and maintainability.

Strategic advantages of using Java:

• Platform portability via the JVM across diverse hardware and OS environments.
• Rich ecosystem of libraries, frameworks, and developer tools.
• Proven performance and scalability for server-side applications.
• Strong tooling for monitoring, profiling, and production tuning.

• OpenJDK
• Wikipedia Entry: Java