How can I get the latest JRE / JDK as a zip file rather than EXE or MSI installer?
Fetch the JDK in a zip format via a tar.gz archive from:
-
Oracle (personal use):
- Navigate to
https://www.oracle.com/java/technologies/javase-downloads.html - Opt for
.tar.gzcorresponding to the chosen version - Extract using
tar -xzf jdk-version.tar.gz
- Navigate to
-
AdoptOpenJDK (open-source route):
- Head to
https://adoptopenjdk.net/ - Select version, then
.tar.gz - Unpack with your preferred archive tool
- Head to
Extraction on Windows using 7-Zip:
7z x jdk-version.tar.gz -oJDK_FOLDER //The magic incantation
The workaround: Installing JDK without the traditional installer
Running into permissions hurdle or require a portable solution? Here's the manual route to setup JDK with the power of zip files and environment manipulation.
Breaking the shackles of traditional installers
Installers are not your only option. Extract the archive, set a couple of environment variables and you're good to go! Here's the step-by-step guide:
- Fetch the
.exeor.msipackage from Oracle's site. - Unpack the bounty:
- For
.exe, use 7-Zip: Right-click on the file > 7-Zip > Extract to "jdk-XuXX-windows-x64". - For
.msi, venture intoC:\Users\YOUR_USER_NAME\AppData\LocalLow\Sun\Javawhere MSI and CAB files normally hide. - Stumbling upon JDK 8? Seek the
tools.zipfile.
- For
- Move the extracted riches to your JDK directory.
- Set JAVA_HOME and PATH environment variables pointing to your new JDK abode.
Custom solutions: Every JDK problem has a tailored answer
Whether you need a JDK that's always ready for travel, or setting up a Java environment without admin rights, here are your knight(s) in shiny armour:
- Universal Extractor: If JRE or JDK, an worthy alternative to 7-Zip when dealing with stubborn MSI files.
- PortableApps.com: They keep portable versions of JDK and JRE, handy right?
- jdk.java.net: The Holy Grail, the home of official OpenJDK builds. Perfect if you love everything open-source.
An in-depth dive into JDK portability
Let's delve deeper into the caverns of JDK portability. A handful of must-knows await.
Leaving no traces, the Spy way
Portable JDK is the spy's tool – leaves no registry changes. Important when you play hot potato with systems, leaving no traces.
Customize, because who doesn't love it?
JDK isn't rigid, mold it with jlink, letting you create a custom JRE. Perfect for creating lean applications, cutting the fat!
Flexibility for the nomadic coder
This portable approach offers you the flexibility to configure Java on USB drives, cloud storage, or shared network locations. Wander freely.
When X marks the MSI and CAB spot
Venture into C:\Users\YOUR_USER_NAME\AppData\LocalLow\Sun\Java – the promised land of MSI and CAB files, visible after initiating an Oracle JDK download.
Quitters aren't always Losers
Start the Java installer but quitonce the temporary files materialise, avoiding a wasteful full installation. Yes, quitting can also win you the game!
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