How to brew install java?

Symlinks for system Java wrappers

Have system Java wrappers? Create this symlink to make it work:

# Symlink, or the breadcrumbs for your system to find Java
sudo ln -sfn /opt/homebrew/opt/openjdk/libexec/openjdk.jdk /Library/Java/JavaVirtualMachines/openjdk.jdk 
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Validate your efforts with java -version.

Specify your Java version

Do you have a favorite Java version? Here's how to install it:

# Because we all have preferences, right? 
brew install openjdk@8
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Feel free to replace openjdk@8 with openjdk@11 or your particular preference.

Juggling multiple versions of Java

You want to see all installed Java versions? Here's how:

# The Java beauty contest
/usr/libexec/java_home -V
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Set a specific Java version as default this way:

# King Java: Long live the king!
export JAVA_HOME=$(/usr/libexec/java_home -v version_number)
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But wait, there's more! Remember to update your shell initialization files (.bashrc or .zshrc) with the export command for a permanent solution.

Combat common Java related issues

Mitigating common Java issues

Here's a handy guide to fixing classic Java issues.

1. Error: cask "adoptopenjdk" is unavailable. This can be easily rectified by turning to the Eclipse Temurin build:

# AdoptOpenJDK left the chat. Welcome, temurin!
brew install --cask temurin
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2. Conflicting Java versions can be solved by using jenv to seamlessly switch between them. Here's a quick guide to wield jenv like a pro:

# Manage Java like a pro with jenv
brew install jenv
echo 'export PATH="$HOME/.jenv/bin:$PATH"' >> ~/.zshrc
echo 'eval "$(jenv init -)"' >> ~/.zshrc
source ~/.zshrc
jenv add /Library/Java/JavaVirtualMachines/openjdk.jdk/Contents/Home
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3. Incorrect JAVA_HOME after updating? Refresh it with this command:

# Because JAVA_HOME needs an occasional spa day too
export JAVA_HOME=$(/usr/libexec/java_home -v version_number)
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Always remember to add it to your .zshrc or .bash_profile to make it stick.