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

Class loading

In this enlightening section, we dive deep into the intricate world of class loading, a cornerstone of Java’s dynamic and extensible nature. Join us as we unravel the mechanisms behind dynamic class loading, which allows Java applications to adapt and extend their functionality during runtime. We’ll explore ClassLoader, the unsung hero responsible for dynamically loading Java classes into the JVM. Gain insights into the nuances of the class loader hierarchy, understanding how different class loaders collaborate to assemble the rich tapestry of Java applications. From system class loaders to custom class loaders, we’ll traverse the layers underpinning Java’s ability to incorporate new classes and extend its functionality dynamically. Prepare for a journey into the heart of Java’s runtime dynamics, where the magic of class loading unfolds.

The realm of class loading in Java is delineated by two distinct entities: the bootstrap class...