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Where can I find the Java SDK in Linux after installing it?

java
jdk
linux
path
Nikita BarsukovbyNikita Barsukov·Aug 12, 2024
TLDR

Quickly pinpoint your Java SDK installation path in Linux using the following commands:

For package manager installations (e.g., apt, yum):

which java # "Java? Oh, you mean my good buddy down the PATH?"

Locate the directory of the Java package:

dpkg-query -L <java-package-name> # Debian-based systems rpm -ql <java-package-name> # RedHat-based systems

Switch between multiple installed Java versions:

update-alternatives --config java # "Eeny, meeny, miny, moe, Catch a JVM by the toe..."

For manual installations, or to verify JAVA_HOME:

echo $JAVA_HOME # "Echo! Echo! Echo!"

Scan frequent installation directories:

ls /usr/lib/jvm/ # The usual hideout ls /usr/local/java/ # When Java's in a local mood ls /opt/java/ # Java went _opt_-ional?

JDK locating techniques: Unleashing the detective within

At times, the JDK chooses to play an elaborate game of hide and seek across your computer's vast terrain. Use these techniques to emerge victorious:

The light in the darkness: Advanced file searching

When usual paths fail you, light up the search torch:

find / -type f -name javac 2>/dev/null # "JavaC, Y U NO hide in Home?"

Decode the terminal's secret: Understanding PATH display

Your terminal holds invaluable secrets. Uncover them with this powerful command:

readlink -f $(which java) # Translates to: "Reveal thyself, O Java!"

This reveals where the java command's symbolic link points to ― an integral brick in the grand JDK wall.

One small step for Terminal: Setting up the stage

After the victorious discovery, add the JDK path to your ~/.bashrc or ~/.profile:

export JAVA_HOME='/path/to/jdk' # "Welcome to your new HOME, Java!" export PATH=$PATH:$JAVA_HOME/bin # "You're part of the PATH family now!"

Reload sources source ~/.bashrc or just shout 'Open Sesame' to a new terminal session. Voila, changes applied!

Applying wisdom, reaping benefits: Understanding java alternatives

For it's not just about the journey, but the alternatives en route:

update-java-alternatives -l # "Let's count the alternative roads home."

Taking the helm: Mastering your Linux environment

Embrace the communal resources

Refer to community forums, blog posts, official documentation - absorb all learning sources. Just beware of the trolls!

Play the error whisperer

Errors are often the key to the solution. Remember, each error message was once a user question that got Promoted!

Your discovery, the world's treasure: Documentation

Securing the newfound knowledge for others is your gift to the code universe. Plus, it helps when your HDD's got a Case of the Mondays!

Forging the outlier: Manual installation

You've also got the option to manually install the SDK using a .tar.gz (Tarball). It's like unboxing the Java present yourself!

tar -xzf <java-archive>.tar.gz # "Behind you, it's a tarball!"