JVM Overview

About

The Java Virtual Machine (JVM) is the core runtime environment that enables Java applications to run on different platforms. It abstracts hardware details and provides memory management, execution, and security features.

Key Components of JVM

  1. ClassLoader – Loads class files into memory.

  2. Runtime Memory Areas – Includes Heap, Stack, Metaspace, and Method Area for managing objects, methods, and execution data.

  3. Execution Engine – Converts bytecode into machine code using an Interpreter and JIT Compiler.

  4. Garbage Collector (GC) – Manages memory automatically by reclaiming unused objects.

  5. Native Interface (JNI) – Enables interaction with native code (C/C++).

JVM Lifecycle

  1. Loading & Linking – Classes are loaded, verified, and prepared.

  2. Runtime Execution – The application runs with memory management, JIT compilation, and threading.

  3. Shutdown – JVM performs cleanup and releases resources.

The JVM ensures platform independence, optimized execution, and security, making Java highly portable and reliable.

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