Java SE Desktop Overview

Java SE Desktop Overview

Desktop Java technologies can be used to create rich client applications and applets that are fast, secure, and portable. This page introduces all of these technologies.

Most of the technologies are included as part of Java SE (also known as the JRE, or Java Runtime Environment), which is pre-installed on over 90% of all desktop systems on a wide range of operating systems. Other Desktop Java technologies are available as either separate downloadable Java extensions, or as open source projects on java.net. Finally, the Netbeans IDE with its integrated GUI builder brings everything together, allowing you to easily build your desktop application.

Documentation   The complete index of Desktop Java documentation includes API specifications, articles, white papers, blogs, Tech Tips, and more. If this is your first time writing a GUI for the Java platform, we suggest that you start with The Swing Tutorial.   Community   Please visit the JavaDesktop.org community on java.net for the latest news and information for developers of client applications. Don't miss the news, features, blogs, forums, and open source projects. JavaDesktop.org has an incubator project named SwingLabs where Sun's Desktop Java engineers and the greater community are co-operating together on next-generation desktop components, many of which will eventually be rolled back into the Java SE platform.   Spread the Word!   Host the Get Java Software Button to show your support for the Java platform and to help users download the latest version (details).

Forums   Several different forums can help you along your Desktop Java journey: JavaDesktop Forums on java.net: This is our prime spot for discussing all things desktop. It mixes Q&A with advanced developer discussions, such as the direction and future of Java on the desktop. Many of the Desktop Java engineers at Sun participate on these forums. Java Forums on the Sun Developer Network (SDN): More of a Q&A forum, this is a great resource for both beginning and advanced developers. Java SE Snapshots: Project Feedback Forum in the JDK Forums on java.net: You can use this to leave us feedback on current snapshots.   Swing Sightings!   Check out hundreds of great applications written using Desktop Java technologies on the Java SE platform. If you have an application you'd like us to highlight on the page, send us your suggestion!