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Run jar file in command prompt

java
prompt-engineering
best-practices
performance
Nikita BarsukovbyNikita Barsukov·Oct 11, 2024
TLDR

To execute a .jar file, use the command java -jar YourApp.jar presuming Java is installed. Command format:

java -jar YourApp.jar

For jars requiring arguments:

java -jar YourApp.jar argument1 argument2

For a .jar file not in the current directory:

java -jar C:\Path\to\YourApp.jar

Ensure the Java version is compatible with your application.

If a specific main class needs to be called and it does not serve as the entrance point in the manifest, utilize:

java -cp YourApp.jar full.package.name.ClassName

Customize your application to cater for dependencies or JVM options.

Common issues and solutions

Sometimes you might encounter problems while running jar files:

  • Error: Could not find or load main class - Check the 'Main-Class' attribute of the manifest or ensure the class name is correctly typed into the command line.
  • Jar cannot be accessed - Ensure you are positioned in the correct folder and that Java's path is set for the system.
  • OutOfMemoryError - You might need to allocate more memory:
java -Xms512m -Xmx1024m -jar YourApp.jar // More room for memories!
  • NoClassDefFoundError/ClassNotFoundException - Ensure required libraries and dependencies are included in the classpath.

Optimize for performance

Here are some tips for optimizing Java applications:

  • Memory settings tweaks: Adjust heap size with -Xms and -Xmx options.
  • GC (Garbage Collection) Tuning: For performance critical applications tend to the GC settings with JVM flags.
  • Code profiling: Use a Java profiler to spot bottlenecks and optimize for efficiency.

Checking jar integrity

Ensure to validate your file's integrity before using it with checksums or digitally signed jars from the developer. Corrupted files can cause errors - or worse.

Mainly manifest

An executable .jar file typically requires a 'Main-Class' attribute in its manifest file, directing Java to the correct entry point. Developers can create or edit the manifest:

Main-Class: com.example.MyMainClass

Users should run the .jar as per any instructions provided, for instance, using certain parameters or setting specific environment variables.

References