Microsoft Build for OpenJDK Now Generally Available for Production Deployment After April Preview
The Microsoft Build of OpenJDK has reached general availability, offering a no-cost distribution of open-source Java. This release positions Microsoft as a competitor to Oracle’s Java distributions, aiming to attract enterprise software developers. Officially released on May 25, after a preview phase that began in April, Microsoft Build of OpenJDK includes binaries for Java 11, based on OpenJDK 11.0.11+9, suitable for server and desktop environments across macOS, Windows, and Linux. These OpenJDK 11 releases are designated as long-term support (LTS) versions and will receive updates on a quarterly basis. The binaries can be downloaded directly from Microsoft’s official website.
Enhanced and Up-to-Date Distribution
The Microsoft Build of OpenJDK might contain additional fixes and enhancements or backported fixes that are deemed crucial for Microsoft’s customers and internal users. These modifications might not yet be integrated into the upstream OpenJDK project. Such enhancements will be clearly documented in the release notes, with the source code made available for transparency. This approach ensures that enterprises using Microsoft’s distribution benefit from improvements tailored to their needs, even ahead of broader OpenJDK updates.
Docker Support and ARM Compatibility
Alongside the general availability of the OpenJDK binaries, Microsoft is also releasing Docker images and corresponding Docker files for the Microsoft Build of OpenJDK. These are designed to facilitate the deployment and management of Java applications within containerized environments, aligning with modern DevOps practices. Additionally, Microsoft is providing an Early Access binary of OpenJDK for Java 16, specifically for Linux and Windows on ARM architecture. This early access release allows developers to experiment with the latest Java features on ARM-based systems, catering to a growing segment of the computing market.
Comprehensive Documentation and Developer Resources
To support developers in leveraging Microsoft’s Java offerings, the company has launched a new Java Development with Microsoft documentation hub. This online resource center provides comprehensive guides and tutorials on developing Java applications and services using Microsoft technologies. Topics covered include using Java in the Visual Studio Code editor and deploying Java applications on Microsoft Azure. This initiative is part of Microsoft’s broader strategy to integrate Java development more deeply into its ecosystem, providing robust tools and platforms for Java developers.
Competing with Established Java Distributions
By offering a robust and free alternative to Oracle’s Java distributions, Microsoft aims to win over enterprise developers looking for reliable and cost-effective Java solutions. The inclusion of long-term support, regular updates, and enterprise-grade enhancements positions Microsoft Build of OpenJDK as a competitive choice for businesses seeking stability and performance in their Java applications. Moreover, the integration with Microsoft’s cloud services and development tools provides added value for developers already using or considering Microsoft’s technology stack.
Strategic Move in the Java Ecosystem
The general availability of Microsoft Build of OpenJDK marks a significant milestone in Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to support the Java community. This move not only diversifies the options available to Java developers but also strengthens Microsoft’s position within the Java ecosystem. By providing a high-quality, no-cost Java distribution, along with comprehensive support and integration with its own products, Microsoft is likely to attract a substantial user base, furthering its influence in the enterprise software development landscape.
Future Prospects and Updates
Looking ahead, Microsoft plans to continue enhancing its OpenJDK offerings, with regular updates and new features aimed at meeting the evolving needs of developers. The company’s commitment to providing a reliable and performance-optimized Java distribution, coupled with strong community and enterprise support, suggests that Microsoft Build of OpenJDK will remain a key player in the Java development space. As developers adopt and integrate this distribution into their workflows, Microsoft’s role in the Java ecosystem is set to expand, fostering innovation and collaboration across the industry