Java Archive

What Does Java Archive Mean?

Java archive (JAR) is a file format that contains bundled Java class files along with associated image/sound files, resources and metadata. It is usually a single, compressed file mostly used for supplying the necessary Java libraries and application software on a Java programming platform.

The JAR file format is similar to the tape archive (TAR) file format used in Unix.

Techopedia Explains Java Archive

A JAR file also may be used in the following ways:

• As a building block in Java applications
• As a deployment unit for Java plug-ins, applets or components For packaging Java components and dependent resources

JAR file features include the following:

• Mostly compressed into a ZIP file format and identified with the file .jat file extension
• Can be executable
• One can sign in on JAR file contents for more security.
• Have a lower download time, especially those related to applets and Java Web Start
• Highly compressed and provide efficient storage for the bundled Java files
• Support package versioning and package version consistency
• Support portability
• Java Development Kit (JDK) provides a JAR tool that helps perform basic JAR file tasks.
• In a JDK, a utility program with a JAR is provided. A programmer can use this to create, extract or perform any permitted operations on the JAR file.
• Date and time stamp are stored during the creation of a JAR file.
• Using JAR files, a Java application can be initiated in an enterprise.
• When used on the Web, a JAR file may contain an applet and accompany a Web page.