Java
Java is a programming language developed by Sun Microsystem.
Java adopts a similar notation to C language, but it was established from scratch, covering disadvantages of existing languages like C language, so it has perfect object directivity that hasn't been found in other languages so far. Moreover, its design is strongly aware of network environment, represented by loaded functions related to strong security or abundant network.
Software developed on Java can operate with any platforms without depending on certain OS or microprocessors. The high predictability is Java's most notable feature, and its convenience is stressed by a catch phrase "Write Once, Run Anywhere".
Source code described with Java is first changed into intermediate code called "Java byte code" in the process of compile. Software is distributed in the state of Java byte code, and changed into the form suitable for performing platform (native code) with software called Java Virtual Machine, and performed. The difference of platforms doesn't matter in Java programs performed on Java Virtual Machine because the difference is adjusted by the machine.
On the other hand, Java's disadvantage is that the operation is slower than software developed in normal programming languages because it takes time to change programs from Java byte code to native code. Moreover, Java can use only functions that can be realized at any platforms, which makes it impossible to use unique functions peculiar to the platform.
To make up these disadvantages, some companies provides high-speed Java development environment that can use the unique functions, though it is operated at certain platforms.
In 1999, Java2 was published with more developed functions, and now improvements have been added to Java2.