Java has continued to remain one of the world’s top three most popular programming languages and all for a good reason.
To now, Java has a vibrant developer community and is widely utilized as the server-side language for a wide range of back-end development projects, including Big Data and Machine Learning, in addition to Web development and Android development.
Why is Java popular?
The fact that Java is fundamentally an object-oriented programming language is what makes it so compelling. As a result of OOP’s modular structure, solving complex problems is simplified. It is easier for programmers to write re-usable code and speeds up the development process.
Objects are created in Java programming by using classes that define data attributes and behaviors. Java’s abstraction, encapsulation, polymorphism, and inheritance features and best practices, and built-in packages make it easier to create Java code. Because Java objects do not require any external references, Java code is exceptionally robust.
Here are some of the best features that help explain why it’s so popular-
1. Java is user-friendly
Because Java’s syntax resembles that of English, it is an ideal language for beginners, who can progress from Core Java to Advanced Java over time. And if you’re already familiar with C and C++, it won’t take you long to pick up Java.
2. Java for everything!
The Java programming language has long been used to create Web applications, Android applications, and software development tools like Eclipse, NetBeans IDE, etc. Today, Java’s use cases include everything from data science and machine learning to IoT. Because of the high-level concurrency tools and packages of Java, developers prefer it for designing all of these applications. It is also cross-platform compatible.
3. Java boasts of rich API
The Application Programming Interface (API) of Java is extensive and rich, containing numerous methods that can be used directly in any code. Methods in the Java API cover everything from networking to connecting to databases, parsing XML, and handling input-output, among other things. Google Guava, Apache Xerxes, Apache POI, Apache Commons, OpenCV, Gson, and more open-source Java libraries are accessible as well.
4. A robust community backs Java
The large and growing community support for Java is one of the main reasons for its popularity. It is the second-largest Stack Overflow community. As a result, you can rely on the Java community to help you out if you need it.
5. Java has excellent documentation
Open-source programming languages like Java are completely free to use. Its abundance of documentation is yet another outstanding feature. It offers a comprehensive guide that explains any issues you might run across while writing Java code.
6. Java comes with a comprehensive set of development tools.
One of Java’s most remarkable features is the Integrated Development Environment (IDE). The Java IDE includes several automation tools, editors, and debuggers. NetBeans, Eclipse, and IntelliJ IDEA are the top three Java IDEs.
Conclusion
Some of the most important reasons why developers, data scientists, and business titans choose Java are listed above. The Java Runtime Environment is compatible with a wide range of devices and platforms, including Macintosh, Linux/Unix, Windows, mainframe systems, and mobile devices. This explains why Java is such a dominant force in the industry today.