Java

Java is a network programming language that was originally developed by Sun Microsystems. Currently, it is the fastest growing programming language for cross-platform networks, particularly those that call for the thin client model of computing. Java is actually a scaled down version of the C++ programming language that omits many seldom used features, while adding an object orientation. Java provides a cleaner, simpler language that can be processed faster and more efficiently than C or C++ on nearly any microprocessor.

Whereas C or C++ source code is optimized for a particular model of processor, Java source code is compiled into a universal format. It writes for a virtual machine in the form of simple binary instructions. Compiled byte-code is executed by a Java run-time interpreter, performing all the usual activities of a real processor, but within a safe, virtual environment instead of a particular computer platform. This allows the same Java applications to run on all platforms and networks, eliminating the need to port an application to different client platforms. In fact, Java applications can run anywhere the virtual machine software is installed, including any Java-enabled browser, such as Microsoft s Internet Explorer and Netscape Communications Netscape Navigator.

The use of Java enables remote users, mobile professionals, and network managers to access corporate networks, systems and legacy data through Java applets that are downloaded from the server to the remote computer only when needed. An applet is a piece of a larger application that resides on the server. The function...