Java is one of the most widely used programming languages in the world, and it has undergone significant changes over the years. Java 8 and Java 11 are two major versions of Java that have been released in recent years. In this blog, we will explore the differences between Java 8 and Java 11, including new features, performance improvements, and other important changes.
Performance Improvements
Java 11 has several performance improvements over Java 8. One of the significant improvements is the use of the G1 garbage collector, which helps in reducing garbage collection pauses and improving application performance. Another important improvement is the introduction of the Z Garbage Collector (ZGC) in Java 11. This garbage collector is designed to handle larger heap sizes with low latency and minimal impact on the application’s performance.
Security Enhancements
Security is a crucial aspect of any programming language, and Java is no exception. Java 11 has several security enhancements over Java 8, including the removal of deprecated security algorithms and the introduction of new algorithms that are more secure. Java 11 also includes new cryptographic algorithms and TLS protocols that improve security in the platform.
Module System
Java 9 introduced the module system, which allows developers to create modular applications that are easier to maintain and scale. Java 11 comes with an improved module system that makes it easier to create, compile, and package modules. This feature is not available in Java 8, which uses the traditional classpath mechanism for loading classes.
New APIs and Features
Java 11 comes with several new APIs and features that are not available in Java 8. For example, Java 11 includes the HTTP Client API, which allows developers to send HTTP requests and receive responses using a fluent and reactive API. Java 11 also includes the Var keyword, which allows developers to declare local variables without specifying their data types explicitly. This feature makes the code more concise and readable.
Long-Term Support
Java 11 is a long-term support (LTS) version, which means that it will receive regular updates and security patches for several years. This makes it an attractive option for businesses and organizations that need a stable and reliable platform for their applications. Java 8, on the other hand, is not an LTS version and will not receive updates and security patches beyond a certain date.
Improvements in String Class
Java 11 introduced several improvements to the String class. One of the most significant changes is the introduction of new methods to manipulate and compare strings. For example, Java 11 includes the repeat() method, which returns a string that is repeated a specified number of times. It also includes the isBlank() method, which checks if a string is empty or contains only white spaces.
Removal of Deprecated APIs
Java 11 removed several deprecated APIs, which are no longer supported in the platform. This includes the java.xml.bind module, which was replaced by the java.xml.bind module in Java 9. The removal of these deprecated APIs simplifies the platform and reduces the maintenance burden for developers.
Enhanced Docker Support
Java 11 includes several enhancements to support containerization using Docker. For example, it includes the ability to dynamically adjust the size of the JVM heap based on the memory limits of the container. It also includes improvements to the logging and monitoring of containerized applications.
Improved HTTP Support
Java 11 includes several improvements to the HTTP protocol support. For example, it includes the ability to handle HTTP/2 server push, which allows servers to send multiple responses for a single request. It also includes enhancements to the WebSocket API, which allows for real-time, bidirectional communication between a client and server.
Enhanced Security with KeyStore
Java 11 includes several enhancements to the KeyStore class, which is used to store cryptographic keys and certificates. It includes support for new key types, such as EdDSA and X25519, and new certificate extensions, such as SCTs and OCSP stapling. These enhancements improve the security of Java applications that use cryptography.
Migration to a Modular Platform
Java 11 marks a significant step in the migration towards a fully modular platform. While Java 9 introduced the module system, it was not widely adopted due to compatibility issues. Java 11 includes several improvements to the module system, which make it easier to migrate existing applications to a modular platform.
Performance Improvements with Graal
Java 11 includes experimental support for the Graal compiler, which is a high-performance just-in-time (JIT) compiler. The Graal compiler offers significant performance improvements over the traditional HotSpot JIT compiler, particularly for applications that use a lot of reflection and dynamic class loading.
Support for Unicode 10
Java 11 includes support for Unicode 10, which adds more characters and scripts to the platform. This includes support for new emoji characters, such as the hijab, and new scripts, such as Osage and Masaram Gondi.
Conclusion: Java 11 includes several improvements over Java 8, including enhancements to the String class, removal of deprecated APIs, improved Docker support, enhanced HTTP support, improved security with KeyStore, migration to a modular platform, performance improvements with Graal, and support for Unicode 10. These improvements make Java 11 a compelling choice for developers who want to take advantage of the latest features and improvements in the platform.
Take your Java skills to the next level with LearnTube’s online courses. LearnTube is a safe and reliable platform that provides an array of effective learning tools, including its app and WhatsApp bot, to enhance your learning journey. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, LearnTube offers a wide variety of Java courses, ranging from introductory to advanced certifications. Visit our website to explore the diverse selection of investing courses that LearnTube has to offer and elevate your Java knowledge and skills.
