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

Understanding the headers of class file

Headers serve as the introductory notes, containing metadata crucial for the JVM. This section explores the header’s role in setting the stage for Java program execution. The class file header serves as the gatekeeper, guiding the JVM through the intricacies of the bytecode that follows. It houses details such as the Java version compatibility defining the language features the class file relies upon. Additionally, the header declares the class’ constant pool, a symbolic repository that references strings, types, and other constants, further shaping the semantic landscape for program interpretation. A nuanced understanding of class file headers is essential for developers, as it forms the basis for the JVM’s decisions during the loading and execution phases, ensuring the harmonious translation of high-level Java code into the binary language comprehensible to the virtual machine. As we navigate this pivotal section, we will...