How to Resolve the Access Restriction Error for 'Application' Type in Java?

What steps should I take to resolve the "Access restriction: The type 'Application' is not API" error in my Java application?

import javax.swing.*;
import com.apple.eawt.Application;

This error occurs when trying to use classes or methods in Java that are not part of the public API. This can happen in environments like Eclipse where access restrictions are set for certain libraries, such as the Java Runtime Environment (JRE). The 'Application' class from the com.apple.eawt package is one such example, which is specific to macOS and its application framework.

public class Main {
    public static void main(String[] args) {
        // Create and display a basic JFrame
        JFrame mainFrame = new JFrame("Application Menu Example");
        mainFrame.setSize(500, 500);
        mainFrame.setVisible(true);
    }
}

Causes

• The 'Application' class is part of the Apple EAWT (Extended Abstract Window Toolkit) API, which is not always intended for general use and may be restricted by Eclipse.
• Access restrictions in your IDE (such as Eclipse) prevent the use of certain non-public APIs in the JDK.

Solutions

• Check your project's build path and settings in Eclipse to see if access rules are enabled and prevent the use of specific libraries.
• Consider writing your application without relying on the 'Application' class or use alternative libraries that provide similar functionality without restrictions.
• If you need to use the 'Application' class, you can either adjust your Eclipse settings or switch to a different development environment where these restrictions do not apply.

Mistake: Not modifying the build path to allow access to restricted libraries.

Solution: Go to Project > Properties > Java Build Path, check the access rules.

Mistake: Assuming all IDEs have the same access restrictions for Java classes.

Solution: Read documentation specific to your IDE regarding library access.