Java is a popular, high-level programming language known for its object-oriented, class-based structure and platform independence. Created by Sun Microsystems in 1995 and now maintained by Oracle, it allows developers to write code once and run it anywhere using the Java Virtual Machine (JVM). Java emphasizes portability, security, and performance.
Key features include strong type-checking, automatic garbage collection, and a rich standard library that supports everything from data structures to networking. Java's built-in concurrency capabilities make it ideal for creating responsive applications. Popular frameworks like Spring and Hibernate facilitate enterprise and web development.
Java is widely used in Android development, enterprise applications, and financial services due to its stability and scalability. The language continues to evolve, with recent updates like Java 17 bringing enhanced performance and modern features. Its vast ecosystem and active community make Java a great choice for both beginners and experienced developers.