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Error message "gradlew: command not found"

java
gradle-wrapper
permissions
build-environment
Alex KataevbyAlex Kataev·Oct 14, 2024
TLDR

Counteract the "gradlew: command not found" error by ensuring you're in the project's root directory, where the gradlew script should be. In Unix-like systems, render gradlew executable with:

# Knock-knock! Making `gradlew` a VIP with execution rights chmod +x ./gradlew

To execute it, input:

# Presto! Commence Gradle magic ./gradlew tasks

In Windows, go with gradlew.bat:

# Whoop there it is! Windows style gradlew.bat tasks

Missing the script? Roll out a fresh wrapper:

# Say abracadabra for a new Gradle wrapper gradle wrapper --gradle-version [version]

Substitute [version] with your desired Gradle version for harmonious operation.

Spending permission tokens wisely

If ./gradlew misfires, permissions may be at fault:

  1. Check Permissions: Use ls -l to view whether gradlew has the execute (x) permission.
  2. Set Permissions: Should it be required, gift execute permissions using chmod +x gradlew, dodging Permission denied messiness.

Wrapper inception and evolution

Creating and updating the Gradle Wrapper is paramount for maintaining a harmonious build environment:

  1. Initiation: Spin up vital gradlew and gradlew.bat scripts, plus gradle and gradle-wrapper.properties files, using gradle wrapper.
  2. Update: Keep your Gradle Wrapper version updated to your development environment's Gradle version to sidestep compatibility issues.

Evasion techniques

Elude gradlew-related errors by taking preemptive measures:

  1. Directory Drilldown: Stay in project root while executing gradlew to keep the wrapper scripts reachable.
  2. The root of all evil: Utilizing sudo or root for script execution can lead to messy permission complications.
  3. File Fidgeting: Cross-verify gradlew's location in the current working directory prior to run.

Other avenues to explore

Resort to these options when gradlew-related issues persist:

  1. Gradle Direct: Use the gradle tasks straightaway when wrapper behaves stubbornly.
  2. Doc-Dive: The official Gradle troubleshooting documentation may have solutions for your specific problem, like "gradlew clean jpackage" not yielding desired results.
  3. Build Battles: Reassessing alternative builds or tools might fetch success when the wrapper continually disappoints.