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Which One Is Better – Java or .NET?

Much has been talked about the future of Java and .NET. There are plenty of similarities between .NET and Java, but there exist some distinct differences that set each one apart when it comes to software development. Java is one of the most widely used programming languages and .NET is a framework supported by Microsoft. But to have a better understanding, we will consider Java as a platform.

Java

Java is a general-purpose programming language used for developing high-quality applications for both computers and mobile phones. It was originally created as a set of programs and standards by Sun Microsystems which was later acquired by Oracle Corporation. Java works well with any platform including Linux, iOS, Android, Windows, etc. It is free to use and provides an easy interface making it a great prospect to leverage for any Java software development company. It is portable and platform independent with an ability to manipulate Java encryption. The Java platform consists of:

• JE frameworks such as JEE, J2EE
• Java Run Time Environment (JRE) which comprises of Java Virtual Machine (VM), Just-in-time compiler, and Bytecode verifier, and several libraries

.NET .NET is a software framework for creating applications on Windows server and client operating systems. Though its features and functionalities are specifically designed for developing and running applications on Windows, it also supports connectivity with non-Windows platforms. .NET comprises of five key components:

• Windows operating system
• Windows Enterprise Servers
• .NET Framework which includes Common Language Runtime (CLR), Framework class libraries, and ASP.NET
• .NET Building Block Services
• Visual Studio.NET toolset

Both Java and .NET are object-oriented, type-safe, and provide automatic garbage collection. They also provide an ability to build and integrate web services which make the application interoperable and more extensible. Basically, both these platforms offer various toolsets to achieve a similar goal – enterprise application development. Additionally, each one has a set of features, components, and services that provide a standard way of executing tasks such as scripting Web pages, accessing databases, connecting to remote resources, and handling messages.

Although they are similar in many ways, there are many differences in the services and features of these platforms. Take a look at the comparison of the important Java and .NET features and services summarized below.

Features/Service

1. Operating system

• Java - Multiple
• NET - Windows

2. Runtime

• Java - JVM (Java Virtual Machine)
• .NET - CLR (Common Language Runtime)

3. Server Components

• Java - EJBs
• .NET - .NET, COM + serviced

4. Client/GUI Components

• Java - JavaBeans
• .NET - .NET class

5. Web Server Scripting

• Java - JSF (Java Server Faces)
• .NET - ASP.NET

6. Data Access

• Java - JDBC
• .NET - ADO.NET/oleDB

7. Object Persistence

• Java - Hibernate
• .NET - Entity Framework. NHibernate

8. Message Queuing

• Java - JMS on MQSeries
• .NET - Sys. Messaging, MSMQ

9. Asynchronous Invocation

• Java - EJB Message Beans
• .NET - COM + QC

10. Remoting

• Java - RMI – over – IIOP
• .NET - SOAP, HTTP, DCOM

11. Naming

• Java - JNDI
• .NET - ADSI

12. XML

• Java - JAXP
• .NET - System XML

13. HTTP Engine

• Java - Application servers from multiple vendors
• .NET - IIS

14. Web Services Support

• Java - Add-on
• .NET - Built-in

15. Unit Testing

• Java - Junit
• .NET - Microsoft Unit Testing Framework, NUnit

16. Web Application Framework

• Java - Spring
• .NET - ASP.Net, MVC, Spring.NET

Conclusion:

Both Java and .NET are ideal for developing applications. The decision of choosing one over the other depends on the requirements of your application, budget and team skills. Java is a profitable option as it is free to use and has a helpful community. Whereas .NET offers valuable services like Linq. So, take your pick wisely!

Which platform is better according to you – Java or .NET? Let us know in the comments below.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Technoblogger .