Eclipse - no Java (JRE) / (JDK) ... no virtual machine

Aligning Java and Eclipse

Optimal Java version

Eclipse's performance depends on the Java version. For improved performance, use the latest JRE. However, consider older SDKs for compatibility with legacy systems.

Environment variables

Set JAVA_HOME to direct Eclipse to the correct JDK directory. Add %JAVA_HOME%\bin to the PATH variable for command-line detection.

Version consistency

Ensure the version of Eclipse matches your operating system and JRE. For a 64-bit OS, use a 64-bit JRE.

Set JVM in eclipse.ini

Eclipse ignores PATH if a JVM location is defined in eclipse.ini. Be explicit with -vm argument.

Ensuring smooth sailing

Java installation verification

Check that your Java installation is valid, use java -version in the terminal.

Paths and permissions

Ensure permission rights are correct for javaw.exe and the Eclipse folder. Confirm Eclipse refers to the correct javaw.exe.

Customize eclipse.ini

Modify eclipse.ini with -Xmx and -Xms flags to determine heap size for larger projects.

Setting environment variables

If Eclipse cannot find Java, check your environment variables. JAVA_HOME should link to the JDK directory, and PATH should include JDK's bin folder.

Maintain your development machine

Regular Java updates

Apply Java updates as they include performance and security enhancements.

Version compatibility

Check if Eclipse is compatible with your environment setup. For example, 32-bit Eclipse versions don't mix well with 64-bit Java, and vice versa.

Tools compatibility

Make sure Java tools recognize your JAVA_HOME or PATH setup correctly.

Handle browser auto-installs

Avoid occasional browser attempts to install the wrong (usually 32-bit) version of Java. Always manually install the correct Java version you require.