Java Development Kit Download: How to Install JDK
The Java Development Kit (JDK) is an essential tool for Java developers. It includes the Java Compiler (javac), Java Runtime Environment (JRE), and development tools required to build and run Java applications.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- Where to download JDK safely
- How to install JDK on Windows, macOS, and Linux
- How to set up environment variables for Java development
- Best practices for managing multiple JDK versions

What is Java Development Kit (JDK)?
The JDK (Java Development Kit) is a software package that provides developers with:
- Java Compiler (javac) – Converts Java source code into bytecode.
- Java Runtime Environment (JRE) – Runs Java applications.
- Java Debugger (jdb) – Helps debug Java programs.
- Java Libraries & Tools – Essential for software development.
Learn more: Oracle JDK Documentation

Where to Download Java Development Kit (JDK)?
There are multiple sources to download JDK, depending on the version you need:
1. Oracle JDK (Official Java Development Kit)
- Download Link: https://www.oracle.com/java/technologies/javase-downloads.html
- Best for enterprise development with commercial support
2. OpenJDK (Free & Open-Source)
- Download Link: https://openjdk.org
- Best for open-source projects and community-driven development
3. Amazon Corretto (AWS-Supported JDK)
- Download Link: https://aws.amazon.com/corretto/
- Best for cloud-based applications
Explore More: Comparison of Java JDK Versions

How to Install Java Development Kit (JDK) on Windows
Step 1: Download JDK
- Visit Oracle JDK Downloads.
- Select Windows Installer (.exe) and download the latest version.
Step 2: Install JDK
- Run the installer and follow the setup instructions.
- Select the installation directory (default:
C:\Program Files\Java\jdk-XX
).
Step 3: Set JAVA_HOME Environment Variable
- Open Control Panel → System → Advanced System Settings.
- Click on Environment Variables → Add a new variable:
JAVA_HOME = C:\Program Files\Java\jdk-XX
3. Add %JAVA_HOME%\bin
to the Path variable.
Step 4: Verify Installation
Run the following command in Command Prompt:
shjava -version
Read More: Setting Up JAVA_HOME in Windows
How to Install Java Development Kit (JDK) on macOS
Step 1: Download JDK for macOS
- Visit Oracle’s Java SE Downloads.
- Download the
.dmg
installer for macOS.
Step 2: Install JDK on macOS
- Open the downloaded
.dmg
file and follow the installation instructions. - Verify the installation by running:
java -version
Step 3: Set JAVA_HOME on macOS
- Open the terminal and type:
shexport JAVA_HOME=$(/usr/libexec/java_home
- To make this permanent, add it to
.bash_profile
or.zshrc
.
Read More: How to Install Java on macOS
How to Install Java Development Kit (JDK) on Linux
For Ubuntu/Linux:
sudo apt update
sudo apt install openjdk-17-jdk
For CentOS/RHEL:
sudo yum install java-17-openjdk
Verify the Installation:
java -version
Read More: Installing Java on Linux
Managing Multiple JDK Versions
If you need to work with multiple JDK versions, use SDKMAN! on Linux/macOS or manually update the Windows PATH.
Switch Between JDK Versions on Linux/macOS:
sdk install java 17.0.2-open
sdk use java 17.0.2-open
🔗 Learn more: SDKMAN! Java Version Manager
Managing Multiple JDK Versions
Best Practices for JDK Installation and Configuration
- Always use the latest stable version for security and performance.
- Set JAVA_HOME correctly to avoid compatibility issues.
- Use OpenJDK for open-source development and enterprise projects.
- Verify installation by running
java -version
after setup.
Check out: Java Best Practices
Conclusion
Downloading and installing the Java Development Kit (JDK) is the first step to learning Java programming. By following this guide, you can easily set up JDK on Windows, macOS, and Linux and start developing Java applications.
Explore More:
Oracle Java Downloads
OpenJDK Official Site
Java Development Documentation