JAVA File Extension

What is JAVA file?

JAVA is a text file that contains source code written in JAVA programming language. JAVA is an object-oriented programming language based around object classes and instances. JAVA code is compiled to executable files using a compiler such as JAVAC. In order to run JAVA programs a JAVA virtual machine must be used. JAVA is the standard language used for developing Android applications.

Object-oriented programming

JAVA evolved from C++ programming language. The main goal of JAVA designers was to create a platform-independent programming language, but that meant some sacrifices regarding speed and resource usage were unavoidable. JAVA files contain only classes and objects (with some exception of few primitive types). For simplicity, a class is a generalization (a template) of an object.

For example:
Class: human – object: Smith JOHN
Class: airplane – object: Boeing 737

Each class defines properties an object can have (for example, a car can have such properties as color, number seats, etc.) and methods that the object can access, that is operations (or actions) it can perform (for example, a car object can move, use a klaxon, etc.). Classes can inherit from other classes or call other classes.

Programs which support JAVA file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with JAVA files, divided into 4 categories based on operating system on which they are available. Files with JAVA suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Updated: 10/29/2022

How to open file with JAVA extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening JAVA files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with JAVA files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Download and install Java Virtual Machine

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening JAVA files is that no program that can handle JAVA files is installed on user’s system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Java Virtual Machine or different compatible program, such as gVim, JCreator, Windows Notepad. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support JAVA files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. If you want to download Java Virtual Machine installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Update Java Virtual Machine to the latest version

You still cannot access JAVA files although Java Virtual Machine is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. The reason that Java Virtual Machine cannot handle files with JAVA may be that the software is outdated. The most recent version of Java Virtual Machine is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign Java Virtual Machine to JAVA files

After installing Java Virtual Machine (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open JAVA files. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Right-click the JAVA file and choose Open with option
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the Java Virtual Machine installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open JAVA files box and clicking OK button.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• Right-click the JAVA file and select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with JAVA extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Ensure that the JAVA file is complete and free of errors

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper JAVA file. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. Verify that the JAVA in question is not infected with a computer virus

If the JAVA is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. If the JAVA file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

Did you receive the JAVA file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. It could happen the the download process of file with JAVA extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the Java Source Code Format file again.

4. Check whether your system can handle Java Virtual Machine

If the systems has insufficient resources to open JAVA files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Java Source Code Format files. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle JAVA files.

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