Hundreds of programming languages are used by software developers today, but none are as widely used, versatile, or transferable as Java. Java has remained in high demand for more than a quarter-century across industries, including small businesses and Fortune 500 companies, thanks to its numerous benefits and capabilities.
Still, with hundreds of helpful programming languages available, why should you learn Java? Today, we’ll look at the application of Java in today’s world and why Java is essential for backend developers?
What is Java?
Java is an Object-Oriented Programming Language with numerous applications. It’s one of the essential programming languages to learn in 2021. Java is the most widely used technology among developers and the technology industry. It’s everywhere, as evidenced by the message “3 Billion Devices Run Java” that appears during the installation process on your computer.
However, to learn any technology or programming language, you should have a clear idea of why you are diving into it and what you should be able to achieve once you have mastered it. Consequently, we’ll discuss the Top 7 Reasons to Learn Java.
What is Java Used For?
If you’re an amateur and new to the world of programming and want an excellent place to start, then Java might be your best option. Or, if you are a well-learned developer looking for a more lucrative career opportunity in technology, then Java is also for you. In this article, we’ll look at Java’s benefits and drawbacks, as well as how to learn it.
7 Reasons Why You Should Learn Java
1. Easy to Learn and Popular Language
Oracle estimates that Java is used on over 15 billion devices worldwide, so it’s well worth learning. Java ranks third in the list of the most popular programming languages, according to the TIOBE index. Due to its popularity, we can also list some of the other reasons: it is needed by many jobs, and some communities can assist you in learning it.
Java is used for developing business applications, automated tests, mobile games, and more. It is already used by many top companies, including Android, Nasa, Apple, and Google, for healthcare, defense systems, technology, and more. It’s even been used to power the Curiosity Rover’s interplanetary operating systems on Mars! In almost every situation, Java is the best choice. Java can help you on any platform. It doesn’t even matter what application you plan to build.
Java is a diverse and high-level language that allows users to focus on programming rather than more complex machine details, despite its ease of use. Java was created with new developers in mind, providing a safe environment to experiment with the language and make mistakes. Java’s advanced memory management tools use a software tool called the Garbage Collector to handle memory allocation, reallocation, and deallocation automatically. Java also has an English-like syntax with few magic characters, making it simple to read and understand Java programs.
2. Java Is Versatile and Write Once, Run Anywhere (WORA)
Java is not only widely used in technology, but it is also easily scalable and, most importantly, highly portable, as it must be run on a cross-platform Java Virtual Machine (JVM). This JVM sends platform-specific instructions to your computer, which means that once a developer writes code, it can be easily imported to another system on almost any computing device. Java also allows developers to build software on secure, robust, and scalable modern application pillars, making it a versatile choice for computers, applications, gaming consoles, and more. It’s no surprise that Java is known as the programming language that allows you to “write once, run anywhere.”
Java is simple to use across platforms, requiring only one line of code to be written before it can be used on any platform. You can save time and ensure consistency in your code and tools by being platform-independent, regardless of platform. This feature eliminates the unnecessary hassle and helps to systematize your business, streamlining processes and reducing additional programming as your company grows and requires more software.
3. Java Has A Large Community.
Java is used by more than 9 million developers worldwide, so you’re not alone. Having such a large user community has a lot of benefits, including access to a lot of online help from other users.
On Stack Overflow, the term ‘Java’ has been tagged over 1,000,000 times, providing tutorials and tips on how to use it, as well as users assisting one another in overcoming other challenges. If you have a question, there’s a high chance it’s already been asked and answered by a Java developer community.
4. Java Has Handy Tools.
Java has many valuable tools and is a widely used language with critical features that make it simple to learn and popular. JavaFX and other software platforms enable applications to run or function across various devices. You can quickly insert coding and data into your programming by using resources and tools created by other users rather than doing all of the work yourself. This makes learning it much faster and easier because you can use these tools right away if you are only a beginner in the world of Java.
5. Open Source Libraries
When deciding between agile and waterfall development methods, consider your available resources. Open-source libraries written in Java can work with either, allowing quick prototyping to prove design concepts. This makes it an excellent choice for agile sprints, but it can also be used in more traditional waterfall development strategies.
Open-source libraries store a variety of coding and programming for various purposes, allowing your company to meet whatever needs it has. Using these (for free!) will enable developers to use the code they require, knowing that it has been tested multiple times and is ready to use. However, it’s essential to check the libraries’ licensing first, as using them in a commercial setting may incur a license fee.
6. Integrated Development Environments(IDE)
By providing different languages, highlighting syntax, debugging code, completing code, and even automating refactoring, an integrated development environment can make code easier to read and comprehend. Each of these can ensure working code throughout the development process. This could include integrating automated testing tools into DevOps, allowing continuous testing.
7. Java Is The New Recruiting Factor and here for Long Time
Over the next decade, software developer jobs are expected to grow by 22%, with backend developers in particular in high demand due to their specialized skill set. Furthermore, the average base salary for backend developers in the United States is $80,000, 54 percent higher than the national median income. These figures are encouraging for Java Developers, who are among the best-paid programmers in the industry. Java developers now earn an average of $91,465 per year, comparable to that of other common language developers.
The tech landscape is constantly changing, and developers are looking for new languages and frameworks to give them an advantage. While staying current is essential, staying present can be costly and ineffective when industry trends shift. As a result, the importance of Java cannot be overstated, especially as new languages and technologies emerge.
After learning the fundamentals of Java, programmers can specialize in web development, game development, app development, and more and pivot their skills to learn other languages more easily. Java will undoubtedly remain foundational for the next quarter-century and beyond, thanks to its mature tools and libraries, stellar reputation, and entrenchment in the tech industry.
FAQs
1. What is the best methodology to use while learning Java?
Ans. When it comes to an understanding of how a program works under the hood, there is no better language than Java. All of your OOPs concepts will become crystal clear with the help of Java. You can learn Java from a variety of resources available on the internet. However, you should pursue the Project-Based Approach, which is a more effective and enjoyable learning method.
2. What are the top companies that prefer Java skills?
Ans. Java is used for development by the vast majority of businesses. So, here are some well-known companies that use Java: Google, Uber, Netflix, Pinterest, Instagram, Spotify, Amazon, eBay, LinkedIn, and Flipkart are some of the most well-known companies in the world.
3. How much does Java set you back?
Ans. Oracle JDK costs $30 per year for a single-user license. On the other hand, server prices vary depending on the server’s configuration.
4. Why is Java so well-sought?
Java’s popularity stems primarily from its features, such as its robustness and wide range of applications.
5. Is it challenging to learn Java?
Ans. Yes. Java is complex compared to other modern programming languages such as Python, JavaScript, and Kotlin. However, if you are already familiar with a programming language such as C++, you will find it very simple to learn.
Conclusion
Learning Java can provide you with skills that employers are always looking for in developers. With millions of other users offering help and advice across the internet, there has never been a better era to give it a go. Java has universal application, with simple coding across platforms, as it is used everywhere from social media to space.
