What is the Difference Between JVM and JRE?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The main difference between the Java Virtual Machine (JVM) and the Java Runtime Environment (JRE) lies in their roles and components:
- JRE: The Java Runtime Environment creates a runtime environment in which Java programs can run effectively. It includes Java class libraries, Java virtual machines, and other tools that the programs need to execute. However, development tools like compilers and debuggers are not included in the JRE. The JRE becomes operational when the application program is executed and works on the whole program, identifying specific libraries and packages it needs to perform tasks such as math, util, swing, lang, and AWT.
- JVM: The Java Virtual Machine is a part of the JRE and is responsible for converting bytecode into machine-specific code. It performs other minor functions like memory management and security. The JVM becomes operational when the bytecode needs to be interpreted into machine language. It is also platform-dependent and provides core Java functions such as memory management, garbage collection, and security.
In summary, the JRE is responsible for providing an environment to run Java programs, while the JVM is a component of the JRE that interpreter the bytecode into machine-specific code for execution.
Comparative Table: JVM vs JRE
Here is a table comparing the differences between JVM and JRE:
| Feature | JVM (Java Virtual Machine) | JRE (Java Runtime Environment) |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | JVM is an abstract virtual machine that provides an environment for executing Java bytecode. | JRE is a software bundle that contains the JVM and other necessary files and libraries for running Java programs. |
| Platform Independence | JVM is platform-independent. | JRE is platform-dependent. |
| Role in Java Execution | JVM is responsible for converting Java bytecode into machine-specific code. | JRE provides the environment for running Java programs using the JVM embedded within it. |
| File Types | JVM operates with .class files, containing Java bytecode. | JRE contains .class files, as well as other files and libraries needed for Java execution. |
| Inclusion | JVM is included in both JDK and JRE. | JRE is included in JDK, and it contains JVM along with other necessary files and libraries for executing Java programs. |
In summary, JVM provides the environment for executing Java bytecode, while JRE is a software bundle that includes JVM and other necessary files and libraries for running Java programs. JVM is platform-independent, while JRE is platform-dependent.
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