The Core Differences between Java and .NET

The main difference between Java and .NET is that Java, usually Java Enterprise Edition (JEE), can work on any operating system, while .NET works only on various versions of Windows. While a limited number of open-source implementations of .NET are available, this framework is still targeting Windows users. At the same time, Java takes advantage of the Java Virtual Machine (JVM), which follows the concept that code should run on any device and under any operating system, thus making itself a portable and platform-independent programming tool.

Both platforms provide support for common programming languages such as PHP, Ruby, and Python. Java developers can also use languages such as Java, JavaScript, Clojure, Groovy, and Scala while .NET developers can code in C#, F#, VB.NET, C++, and .NET. The two platforms also support other, less popular languages. However, the J2EE framework sets Java as a default language, while .NET is compatible with other languages such as C#, F#, and VB.net. This is a more flexible approach to development of business apps, although it requires more varied coding skills.

Another substantial difference is related to an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) that each platform requires. Basically, an IDE is a software suite that provides must-have tools for a developer to build and test software applications. The default IDE for .NET applications is Microsoft Visual Studio, which is a sophisticated tool to build apps. Java developers can select between four main IDEs available on the market. These are Eclipse, IntelliJ Idea, Oracle NetBeans, and Oracle JDeveloper.