How can I create a Windows .exe (standalone executable) using Java/Eclipse?

Question

I'm new to the programming scene. Been working with C++ for about 5 months now, and have decided I want to start getting into Java. I'm using Eclipse as my IDE, and obviously Java for the language. I'm trying to write a simple HelloWorld application, which can be run through a command prompt executable.

In Visual Studio, it seems it's rather easy to create an executable. All I've ever had to do is use a pull down arrow and choose Release, and then run my build. The purpose of wanting to be able to write/run Java in command prompt is so that I'm able to practice some of the language basics before I go in full force with Swing.

So bottom line, what is the easiest way to create a command prompt .exe written with Java?

Thanks in advance!

Answer 1

Java doesn't natively allow building of an exe, that would defeat its purpose of being cross-platform.

AFAIK, these are your options:

1. Make a runnable JAR. If the system supports it and is configured appropriately, in a GUI, double clicking the JAR will launch the app. Another option would be to write a launcher shell script/batch file which will start your JAR with the appropriate parameters

2. There also executable wrappers - see How can I convert my Java program to an .exe file?

See also: Convert Java to EXE: Why, When, When Not and How

Answer 2

Typical Java programs compile into .jar files, which can be executed like .exe files provided the target machine has Java installed and that Java is in its PATH. From Eclipse you use the Export menu item from the File menu.

Answer 3

Creating .exe distributions isn't typical for Java. While such wrappers do exist, the normal mode of operation is to create a .jar file.

To create a .jar file from a Java project in Eclipse, use file->export->java->Jar file. This will create an archive with all your classes.

On the command prompt, use invocation like the following:

java -cp myapp.jar foo.bar.MyMainClass