What Is a Java Jre 1.6?
The Java Runtime Environment (JRE) is a software package containing all the programs and files needed to run applets and applications written in the Java programming language. The JRE is "end user" software, that is, it is used by people who want to run Java applets and applications. Java programmers use the "Java Developers Kit" (JDK), which contains the JRE, to write applets and applications. JRE 1.6 refers to version 6 the "Java Standard Edition (Java SE) Runtime Environment."
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History
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Java was originally released in 1995 by Sun Microsystems. Java 1.6 (also called "Java 6") was released December 2006, and continues to receive regular periodic updates following its release. Oracle acquired Sun in January 2010, and with it, Sun's Java technologies. Some of the Sun Microsystems sites and products, such as the "Sun Developer Network" retain the Sun name, but include Oracle branding.
Function
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The core component of the JRE is the Java Virtual Machine (JVM). The JVM runs applets and programs written in the Java programming language and other programming languages translated into "Java bytecode" for use with the JVM. The JVM works by mimicking generic computer processor, called a "virtual machine." This virtual machine provides applications with a standardized environment independent of the actual computer hardware and operating system. The JRE also includes files needed to run Java applets and applications.
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Features
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The Java programming language is supported on multiple computing platforms through the JRE software distributed for those platforms. Java programs can run on any computer that has the JRE installed. The JRE is a free download available for several computing platforms. Programmers can easily write and maintain code for multiple computing platforms. Supported operating systems include Windows, Linux, Solaris, and Macintosh. The JRE provides security features to help protect the user's computer and provide access to secure services.
Versions
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Java nomenclature has changed over the years, and can be confusing. "Java 1.6" and "Java 6" represent the same version. Starting with Java 1.5, Sun started referring to Java by the minor version number (the number after the first period). Thus, Java 1.5 was simplified to "Java 5." The term "Java 2" referred 1.2 through 1.5. With version 1.6, the "2" in "Java 2" was dropped, and "J2SE" was renamed to "Java Standard Edition" ("Java SE").
Identification
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Running "java -version" from a command line displays the current internal version number of the JRE (e.g., "1.6.0_20" for Java 6 Update 20). In software management tools (such as Windows "Add or Remove Programs" tool) JRE 1.6 is listed as "Java (TM) 6" (version 1.6) followed by the build number (e.g., "Java(TM) 6 Update 20"). Oracle's Java.com website has a web-based identification tool that simplifies finding the version number, and displays the simplified version number (e.g., "Version 6 Update 20").
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References
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