How to Install a Specific Version of Java Using Homebrew on Mac?

How can I install a specific version of Java, such as 1.8.0_131, using Homebrew on Mac?

Homebrew, the popular package manager for macOS, simplifies the process of installing software, including specific versions of Java. While the default command installs the latest stable version, there's an efficient way to install older versions as well.

# To install a specific version of Java using a Homebrew tap:  
brew tap homebrew/cask-versions  
brew install --cask adoptopenjdk8@1.8.0_131

Causes

• The Homebrew `cask` command installs the latest Java version by default.
• Homebrew's casks might not list all versions available for installation.

Solutions

• Ensure you have the Homebrew Cask installed by running `brew tap homebrew/cask` if you haven't already.
• Use a community-maintained tap to access specific Java versions, such as `ojdkbuild` or `Homebrew/cask-versions`.
• Install a specific Java version using brew with `brew install --cask <your-desired-version>`. For example, to install Java 8, you would run: `brew install --cask adoptopenjdk8`.

Mistake: Attempting to install Java without the necessary taps for specific versions.

Solution: Make sure to add the `Homebrew/cask-versions` tap to access older versions.

Mistake: Confusing the install command between `brew install` and `brew install --cask`.

Solution: For graphical applications or specific JDK versions, ensure to use `--cask`.