JDK Download: How to Install Java Development Kit
JDK (Java Development Kit) is essential for developers who want to write, compile, and run Java applications. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced programmer, installing the latest JDK version is the first step in setting up your Java development environment.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
1. Where to download JDK safely
2. How to install JDK on Windows, macOS, and Linux
3. How to set up environment variables for Java
4. Best practices for managing multiple JDK versions

What is JDK (Java Development Kit)?
The JDK (Java Development Kit) is a software package that includes:
1. Java Compiler (javac) – Converts Java source code into bytecode.
2. Java Runtime Environment (JRE) – Runs Java applications.
3. Java Debugger (jdb) – Helps debug Java programs.
4. Java APIs and Libraries – Essential tools for Java development.
Why Do You Need JDK?
- Develop Java applications – Required for writing and compiling Java code.
- Supports multiple platforms – Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- Used by developers worldwide – Essential for Android development, enterprise software, and web applications.
Learn more: Oracle JDK Documentation

How to Download JDK for Windows, macOS, and Linux
Choose the Right JDK Version
- Oracle JDK – Official JDK from Oracle, free for personal use.
- OpenJDK – Free and open-source version of Java.
- Amazon Corretto – AWS-supported distribution of OpenJDK.
Download JDK from Oracle: https://www.oracle.com/java/technologies/javase-downloads.html
Download OpenJDK: https://openjdk.org

Installing JDK on Windows
- Download JDK Installer from the official website.
- Run the installer and follow the setup instructions.
- Set up the Java environment variable:
Go to Control Panel → System → Advanced System Settings.
Click on Environment Variables → Add a new variable:makefileJAVA_HOME = C:\Program Files\Java\jdk-XX
- Add
%JAVA_HOME%\bin
to the Path variable.
Verify installation using the command:
sh
java -version
Read More: How to Set JAVA_HOME in Windows

Installing JDK on macOS
- Download JDK Installer from the official website.
- Run the installer and follow the setup instructions.
- Set up the Java environment variable:
Go to Control Panel → System → Advanced System Settings.
Click on Environment Variables → Add a new variable:makefileJAVA_HOME = C:\Program Files\Java\jdk-XX
- Add
%JAVA_HOME%\bin
to the Path variable.
Verify installation using the command:
shjava -version
Read More: How to Set JAVA_HOME in Windows
Installing JDK on Linux (Ubuntu & CentOS)
Ubuntu/Linux Installation:
sudo apt update
sudo apt install openjdk-17-jdk
To check the installation:
java -version
CentOS/RHEL Installation:
sudo yum install java-17-openjdk
Read More: Installing Java on Linux
Setting Up Multiple JDK Versions
If you need to manage multiple JDK versions, you can use SDKMAN! on macOS/Linux or update the Windows PATH manually.
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
Best Practices for JDK Installation and Configuration
- Keep JDK Updated – Always use the latest stable version for security and performance.
- Set JAVA_HOME Correctly – Avoid conflicts between multiple Java versions.
- Use OpenJDK for Open-Source Projects – Free and widely supported.
- Verify Installation After Setup – Run
java -version
to confirm.
Check out: Java Best Practices
Conclusion
JDK download and installation is the first step in Java programming. By following this guide, you can easily set up Java on Windows, macOS, and Linux and start developing applications.
Explore More:
Oracle Java Downloads
OpenJDK Official Site
Java Development Documentation