Java is a well-established programming language used for desktop and mobile applications, massive data processing, and backend development. With 3 billion devices worldwide using Java, it's no surprise that it is one of the most popular programming languages. In this article, we will discuss the history of Java, reasons to use it for backend development, top tech companies that use Java for this purpose, and the top Java frameworks for backend development.
History of Java
Java was developed in 1991 by James Gosling and his team at Sun Microsystems, initially for programming in specialized markets, but soon the team shifted its focus to developing the language for the World Wide Web. Java was released in 1995 for usage in various applications ranging from the internet to computer programming. Today, Java is one of the top three programming languages in the world for backend development and ranked first among the top ten programming languages for 2022.
Benefits of Java for Backend Development
Here are some reasons why you should use Java for backend development:
- Scalability and Robustness: Java has a robust type-checking mechanism, automatic memory management, and disposal collection, making it highly scalable and durable. The Java Virtual Machine (JVM) enables dynamic linking and a secure environment, allowing Java to run anywhere.
- Open Source Library: The vast majority of Java libraries are free and open-source with expert support, which speeds up backend programming of web projects dramatically.
- Diversity: Java is the dominant programming language for developing Web applications, Android applications, and software tools. Java's use cases have now grown to include data science applications, machine learning applications, and even IoT applications.
- Simplicity: Java syntax is simple, easy to develop, learn, maintain, and understand, and the code is easily debuggable. Java is less complex than languages such as C and C++ because it eliminates some of their sophisticated features.
- Security: Java reduces security concerns and dangers by reducing the use of explicit pointers. A pointer is a value that keeps the memory address of another value and can be exploited to gain unwanted memory access.
- Platform Independency: The compiled code of Java is platform-independent and can run on any machine, irrespective of the operating system.
- Multithreading Support: Java is a multithreaded language, which allows multiple threads to run simultaneously, maximizing CPU use and increasing application efficiency and performance.
Drawbacks of Java for Backend Development
Java has some drawbacks, such as:
- Lack of Backup Facility: Java is primarily concerned with storage and does not prioritize data backup.
- Code Complexity: Java code is extensive and contains many words and long, complex sentences that are hard to read and comprehend, reducing the code's readability.
- Speed and Performance Level: Java consumes a lot of memory and is slower than native languages such as C or C++. This is partly because each bit of code must be interpreted into machine-level code.
- Memory Capacity: Java uses a significant amount of memory compared to other languages, such as C and C++.
Top Companies That Use Java for Backend Development
Here are some of the top companies that use Java for backend development:
- LinkedIn: This application is primarily written in Java, with some C++ parts thrown in for good measure. Java is excellent for LinkedIn's search and analytics, allowing the server to function faster while using fewer resources.
- Uber: Java is crucial for Uber, as it tracks drivers and incoming ride requests and matches users quickly.
- Microsoft: Java is used by Microsoft for various purposes, including constructing its proprietary Edge web browser.
- NASA World Wind: NASA built the Word Wind app, which features 3D virtual globe technology, using Java.
Conclusion
Java is an excellent choice for backend development because of its scalability, robustness, and security features. It is widely used in enterprise-level applications due to its ability to handle large amounts of data and provide high performance. Additionally, Java has a vast and active developer community, which ensures that it is constantly updated and improved.
In terms of frontend development, JavaScript is a popular language that is widely used to build interactive and dynamic user interfaces. It is compatible with a wide range of browsers, making it an ideal choice for developing cross-platform applications. Additionally, there are many popular JavaScript frameworks, such as Angular, React, and Vue.js, which can greatly simplify the development process.
Overall, the choice of programming language depends on the specific requirements of the project. It is important to consider factors such as scalability, performance, security, and community support when selecting a language for development. Additionally, it is important to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the programming world and continuously learn new skills to stay competitive in the market.