Does Java Web Start Have Support in Java 9 and Later Versions?

What is the status of Java Web Start support in Java 9 and later versions?

Java Web Start was a popular deployment technology within the Java ecosystem, primarily used for launching Java applications directly from the web. However, with the introduction of Java 9, Oracle officially announced the deprecation of Java Web Start, leading to its removal in subsequent releases.

Causes

• Java 8 was the last version that included Java Web Start support.
• Java 9 and later versions transitioned away from the Java EE model, leading to the decoupling of numerous Java technologies including Java Web Start.
• Security concerns and the move towards cloud-based application deployment methods prompted the shift away from Java Web Start.

Solutions

• Consider using alternative technologies for deploying Java applications such as JavaFX with Web Start alternatives, or use Java's native packaging tools to create installable applications.
• Explore modern deployment strategies like containerization (Docker) which can help with Java application deployment in cloud environments.
• Leverage web technologies (HTML5, JavaScript) to create cross-platform applications that eliminate the need for Java Web Start.

Mistake: Continuing to use Java Web Start in Java versions 9 and higher without understanding its deprecation.

Solution: Shift to newer deployment strategies and technologies that are supported in current Java versions.

Mistake: Assuming that web-deployed Java applications can still be launched using Java Web Start after Java 8.

Solution: Adopt alternative deployment tools and methods, reviewing the application architecture to adapt to modern solutions.