Book Image

Mastering the Java Virtual Machine

By : Otavio Santana
Book Image

Mastering the Java Virtual Machine

By: Otavio Santana

Overview of this book

Mastering the Java Virtual Machine is a comprehensive guide that will take you into the heart of Java programming, guiding you through the intricate workings of the Java Virtual Machine (JVM) and equipping you with essential skills to become a proficient Java developer. You’ll start by understanding the JVM, exploring its architecture and how it executes Java code. Through detailed explanations and real-world examples, you’ll gain a deep understanding of JVM internals, enabling you to write efficient and optimized Java applications. As you progress, you’ll delve into memory management and execution, unraveling the complexities of heap and stack management, garbage collection, and memory profiling. You'll learn how memory is allocated and reclaimed in the JVM, as well as how to optimize memory usage and identify performance bottlenecks in your applications. With this knowledge, you’ll be able to create Java programs that are not only robust but also highly performant. By the end of this book, you’ll have the skills needed to excel in Java programming, writing efficient, maintainable code.
Table of Contents (19 chapters)
Free Chapter
1
Part 1: Understanding the JVM
5
Part 2: Memory Management and Execution
9
Part 3: Alternative JVMs
12
Part 4: Advanced Java Topics

Exploring the evolution of Java

The Java programming language, along with its robust platform, has a storied history characterized by its unique and innovative features. A central figure in this narrative is the JVM, a crucial component that has left an indelible mark on Java’s evolution and enduring significance. The JVM plays a pivotal role in making Java what it is today, and its importance to Java’s history cannot be overstated.

The JVM is the linchpin that enables Java’s Write Once, Run Anywhere promise to become a reality. This promise, which redefined software development, directly responded to the challenges of creating software for networked consumer devices such as set-top boxes, routers, and other multimedia devices. By design, the JVM allows compiled Java code to be transported across networks, operate seamlessly on various client machines, and provide safety assurance. The JVM’s architecture and execution model ensures that Java programs...