Software development best practices and processes
The enterprise software development landscape has changed drastically with the rise of Kotlin, Clojure, Python and JavaScript. From a focus on functional programming to new takes on object-oriented analysis and design, Java programmers and JDK architects can learn from these languages' development processes and software engineering best practices.
Top Stories
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Tip
16 May 2025
3 software testing sample test cases, with templates
A good test case is easy to trace, reusable and relevant to user needs. Learn how to write an effective test case with these examples and free templates. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
15 May 2025
Learn how to use concurrency in Go with this tutorial
The Go language is designed for simplicity, including its approach to concurrency. In this tutorial, learn to perform multiple tasks using goroutines, channels and synchronization. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Jun 2023
internationalization (I18N)
Internationalization is the process of designing and building a product so that it can be easily adapted to specific languages and cultures. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
25 May 2023
Is the daily Scrum recommended for colocated teams?
Is the daily Scrum recommended for colocated teams? Yes, yes it is. Any suggestion that the daily Scrum is not recommended for colocated teams is false. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 May 2023
5 Scrum servant leader examples
The term 'servant leader' was removed from the 2020 Scrum Guide, but that doesn't mean it's not important. Here are five examples of a Scrum master as a servant leader. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 May 2023
How to address Python performance problems
Python is a great language for nonprogrammers to do mathematical and scientific tasks, even if such optimization impacts performance. Here's why that's not a fair criticism. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 May 2023
Scrum vs. Waterfall: What's the difference?
Most organizations choose between Waterfall and Agile methodologies, which often means comparing Scrum vs. Waterfall. Here are the differences and some guidance on how to choose. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Apr 2023
Smart contracts, blockchain and decentralized computing
Industries such as manufacturing and finance are turning to decentralized computing technologies, in the form of smart contracts and blockchains, to solve complex problems. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Apr 2023
Amdahl's law
Amdahl's law -- also known as Amdahl's argument -- is an intuitive observation and an associated formula. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Apr 2023
Agile Manifesto
The Agile Manifesto is a document that identifies four key values and 12 principles that its authors believe software developers should use to guide their work. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Apr 2023
How to avoid remote software engineer burnout
Software developer burnout is real. Here are some strategies programmers can use to avoid it. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Mar 2023
JavaScript vs. TypeScript: What's the difference?
TypeScript and JavaScript are two complementary technologies that are driving both front-end and back-end development. Here are the similarities and differences between the two. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Mar 2023
How to apply the single responsibility principle in Java
How does the single responsibility model work in a Java program? Here we show you what this SOLID principle means, and how to implement the single responsibility model in Java. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Mar 2023
Ways to get by when Waterfall development reigns
Against all odds, the Waterfall methodology maintains a tight grip over countless numbers of software development teams. Fortunately, there are a few ways to make the most of it. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Mar 2023
object-relational mapping (ORM)
Object-relational mapping (ORM) is a way to align programming code with database structures. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Mar 2023
The 3 daily Scrum questions
The 2020 Scrum Guide removed all references to the three daily Scrum questions, but does that mean you shouldn't ask them anymore? Continue Reading
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Blog Post
18 Mar 2023
Daily Scrum vs standup meetings: What's the difference?
Other than being an ableist term that discriminates against people who can't stand, there are many differences between a standup meeting and the daily Scrum. Here we look at the 10 most important ... Continue Reading
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Blog Post
04 Mar 2023
Real world Java applications
Java runs on billions of devices, and Java applications of importance run on systems all over the world. Here are the top 10 applications of Java technology today, plus a look at what the future ... Continue Reading
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Blog Post
19 Dec 2022
Deliver software better, not faster
Managers and developers are pressured to complete projects on time and on-spec, but problems arise when speed outweighs quality. Here's why both sides are responsible to slow down and do things right. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Oct 2022
Product owner vs. product manager: What's the difference?
The job a product manager does for a company is quite different from the role of product owner on a Scrum team. Learn key differences between a product owner and product manager. Continue Reading
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Quiz
05 Oct 2022
Introduction to Scrum quiz
Want to prove your knowledge of Scrum? Tackle this 10-question Scrum introduction quiz and see how well you know the Scrum Masters, product owners and the Scrum Guide. Continue Reading
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Quiz
30 Sep 2022
10 tough Scrum Master quiz questions
Here's a tough 10 question Scrum Master quiz to test you on how well you know the responsibilities of this important Scrum role and accountability. Continue Reading
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Quiz
29 Sep 2022
10 tough Agile quiz questions for software developers
Ready to embrace Agile for your software development projects? Take this quiz to gauge your grasp of the basics of Agile, and the core values and principles of the Agile Manifesto. Continue Reading
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Infographic
22 Sep 2022
Agile infographic: 10 facts about the Agile Manifesto
How well do you know the Manifesto for Agile software development? Here are 10 interesting facts about the Agile Manifesto's principles and values. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 Sep 2022
Forward proxy vs. reverse proxy: What's the difference?
Forward and reverse proxies secure and isolate resources that reside on a private network, but they play different roles in modern enterprise architectures. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Sep 2022
Abstract pattern recognition skills aid developers and musicians
What do good programmers and musicians have in common? The ability to recognize and apply abstract patterns helps both roles keep their work in harmony. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Aug 2022
5 tips to make the transition from programmer to manager
Developers who want to shift gears from programmer to manager must embrace a different mindset and various skills. These five tips will guide your path. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
13 Jul 2022
Java comment types by example
There are three types of Java comments developers need to know. Here we show you how to use block, inline and JavaDoc comments with simple examples to make best practices clear. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Jun 2022
8 tech jobs that don't require coding
Looking for an IT job that doesn't involve coding? These eight tech roles are important in any organization, with no programming required. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 May 2022
Agile versus Scrum: What's the difference?
What's the difference between Agile and Scrum? What are their similarities? Learn how to compare and contrast these two popular software development frameworks and methodologies. Continue Reading
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Opinion
18 May 2022
How to communicate effectively in the workplace
Don't bury the lead. Grab your audience's attention early. Be graceful when others disagree. These and other tips will help you communicate more effectively with your peers. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Feb 2022
Where requirements-based tests fit in software testing
Requirements-based testing has its upsides and downsides, and it's not right for every software project. But certain dev teams should still adopt the method. Learn which ones. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Feb 2022
Want to become a freelance developer? Weigh these 4 factors
Some people want independence even if it sacrifices the security of a salaried position. Consider these criteria to see if being a freelance developer is the right choice for you. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Jan 2022
Why you must avoid ScrumBut at all costs
How do Scrum and ScrumBut compare? Darcy DeClute explains why ScrumBut is bad, and how you can avoid this Agile anti-pattern and stay true to Scrum's core principles. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Jan 2022
Ageism in software engineering is still a problem
Many developers want to program right up to retirement, but the reality of age discrimination unfairly hampers their career plans. Here's how to pitch experience as an asset. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Nov 2021
How to choose between REST vs. gRPC
Does your REST API and subsequent JSON or XML data create a bottleneck in your architecture? Perhaps it's time to consider gRPC instead of REST for your web services. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Oct 2021
const
Const (constant) in programming is a keyword that defines a variable or pointer as unchangeable. Continue Reading
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Quiz
15 Jun 2021
REST web services and RESTful API quiz for developers
How well do you know RESTful APIs and their history? Test your knowledge of RESTful web services with this 10-question quiz on REST-based architectures. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 May 2021
How developers can help build a diversified workforce
Diversity comes in many forms. One way to diversify your workforce is to find new applications for the unique skills developers bring to your organization. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Apr 2021
Incorporate diversity and inclusion in technology design
DEI in technology is about more than creating a diverse workplace. We talked to a few DEI professionals about how teams build tools with diversity and inclusion in mind. Continue Reading
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Answer
10 Mar 2021
Synchronous vs. asynchronous microservices communication patterns
What's the difference between synchronous, asynchronous and hybrid communication for microservices? Follow the examples below to establish how microservices communicate. Continue Reading
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Answer
26 Feb 2021
Should my company move its apps to microservices?
Microservices-oriented architecture is more flexible than monolithic structures, but microservices comes with costs companies need to weigh against the potential benefits. Continue Reading
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Infographic
24 Feb 2021
A better Gitflow diagram with branches, merges and color
Developers deserve a better Gitflow diagram, so we've given it to them. See the new and improved Gitflow diagram with support and bugfix branches and a bit of color. Continue Reading
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Answer
23 Dec 2020
What makes an effective microservices logging strategy?
System size and scale play a big role in microservices logging. Follow these best practices to develop a solid logging strategy within a microservices architecture. Continue Reading
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Answer
22 Dec 2020
How is asynchronous microservices tracing best accomplished?
How can you trace a tricky workflow in an asynchronous microservices-oriented architecture? Two options include correlation IDs and distributed tracing tools. Continue Reading
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Answer
18 Nov 2020
What are the most essential microservice design principles?
Don't hinder a microservices architecture because of a faulty design. Keep these five design principles in mind to build the proper components for your microservices architecture. Continue Reading
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Quiz
17 Nov 2020
10 microservices quiz questions to test your knowledge
Don't sweat the details with microservices. Take this 10-question quiz to boost your microservices knowledge and impress interviewers during a job hunt. Continue Reading
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Infographic
16 Oct 2020
A Java programming career path can open doors beyond code
A Java programming career path can lead to so much more than code. Programmers should consider these options that extend beyond the confines of software development. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Oct 2020
3 ways to implement AI in software development
Further advancements to AI make it a more appealing and useful option for enterprise software development. Here are three ways to implement AI and increase developer productivity. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Aug 2020
The 7 user story guidelines every Agile developer should know
Don't let bad user stories foil your Agile software development process. Here are the seven most common user story defects and some tips on how to write better user stories. Continue Reading
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Opinion
11 Aug 2020
How to manage the rise in developer responsibilities
Corporate developers wield more power today than ever before. As such, this power must be offset by checks and balances that create a strong dev environment for everyone in the enterprise. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Jun 2020
3 ways a volunteer programmer can help in a pandemic
DevOps pros can help local and state agencies battle COVID-19. Here are three ways they can volunteer their time during a pandemic. Continue Reading
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Video
23 Jun 2020
How MySQL InnoDB vs. MyISAM data engines compare
Data integrity, performance and transactional capabilities create the MyISAM vs. InnoDB data set debate for MySQL users. Compare the two to see which one makes sense for your data. Continue Reading
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News
07 May 2020
Oracle's Project Leyden uses static images to ease Java pain
Oracle's new Project Leyden introduces static images to help ease long-standing Java language shortcomings such as slow startup times and unwieldy footprints. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Apr 2020
3 developer backup strategies for unplanned downtime
What should a developer do during downtime? These three housekeeping tasks should be performed regularly and will keep your data protected in case of an emergency. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Mar 2020
Developing a COVID-19 application? Design it the right way
Application developers with skills and an idea could design an app to combat the virus. Follow these insights to effectively design and deploy a coronavirus-related app. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Mar 2020
How developers can volunteer during the COVID-19 pandemic
What resources can developers offer to go against COVID-19? Explore some promising developer volunteer and open source project opportunities to see how you can help. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Mar 2020
Work from home tips from distributed development teams during COVID-19
The distributed dev community often works remotely. Pick up these approaches, such as an asynchronous schedule and video collaboration, to be productive and in sync while the whole team works from home. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
07 Feb 2020
Why you should make kebab case a URL naming convention best practice
They say there are only two difficult challenges in the world of computer programming: Synchronizing the invalidation of a distributed tertiary and quaternary cache; and What to name things. Given ... Continue Reading
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Blog Post
15 Dec 2019
Moving JavaOne to Las Vegas shows Oracle has 2020 vision
The rebranding of JavaOne to Oracle Code One and move from San Francisco to Las Vegas is one that I will welcome with open arms, and you should too. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Oct 2019
You need more than web app security to stop API attacks
API and web application vulnerabilities may share some common traits, but it's where they differ that hackers will target. Continue Reading
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Guide
19 Sep 2019
Guide to practicing cloud-native development
In this guide, learn about cloud-native development -- what it is, how vendors try to exploit it and how to bring it to life with the help of a DevOps environment. Continue Reading
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Video
19 Jun 2019
5 Java test frameworks and tools JDK developers must know
Java testing tools can ensure you release a product that's been carefully examined for bugs and errors. Here are five frameworks that can lighten that testing burden. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Jun 2019
prettyprint
Prettyprint is the process of converting and presenting source code or other objects in a legible and attractive way. Continue Reading
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Video
30 May 2019
JDBC in Java: 5 facts to know before you begin
Are you new to Java programming? Here are five interesting facts about the JDBC API and what you need to know about it to ease your development pathway. Continue Reading
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Video
15 Apr 2019
IBM Watson Content Hub has problems before you even start
IBM's Watson might make waves on certain TV game shows, but it can't even get some simple basic forms correct, which could sour potential developers before they even start. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Feb 2019
An independent contractor software developer cash flow guide
Cash management is a big part of your role as an independent software developer. Learn how to properly manage your funds and cash flow with these tips. Continue Reading
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Opinion
12 Feb 2019
Master-slave terminology alternatives you can use right now
Software companies have found alternatives for master-slave terminology to describe their distributed systems. It's time for the rest of the IT world to do the same. Continue Reading
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Feature
31 Jan 2019
Developers and the enterprise software sales process
Should developers be privy to the ins and outs of software sales? A strong business relationship can be mighty helpful in this expensive and tedious process. Continue Reading
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Video
01 Jan 2019
Step-by-step RESTful web service example in Java using Eclipse and TomEE Plus
In this easy-to-follow JAX-RS tutorial, we provide a RESTful web service example in Java using Eclipse and TomEE Plus, where we go from development to testing in less than 15 minutes. Continue Reading
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Opinion
14 Dec 2018
Don't contribute to the high IT project failure rate
Enterprise software development is difficult, so it's no surprise to discover there is a high IT project failure rate. Here's how to buck the trend and get yours to succeed. Continue Reading
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News
28 Nov 2018
GraphQL group sets new direction for developers
A group of GraphQL users and the Linux Foundation have joined forces to manage and monitor the future of Facebook's popular open source data query and manipulation language. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Nov 2018
The 4 essential Java cyclomatic complexity testing tools
Code that's less complex is easier to troubleshoot and maintain. If developers can calculate code cyclomatic complexity metrics, they have a playbook to tackle the testing phase. Continue Reading
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Video
30 Oct 2018
4 ways to upload a JAR to a JFrog Artifactory repository
Need to upload a JAR to a Maven repository after an artifact has been built? Here, we show you four ways to upload a file to a JFrog Artifactory repository. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Sep 2018
How to become a good software architect in 13 steps
It's not easy to find your role in an IT enterprise setting. But if you can follow these 13 steps on how to become a software architect, you'll be well on your way to success. Continue Reading
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Video
02 Aug 2018
Maven Checkstyle Plugin example: How to enforce Java quality rules
Java Checkstyle rules can be applied to every build to ensure developers are following source code quality rules correctly. This Maven Checkstyle Plugin tutorial shows you how. Continue Reading
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Video
07 Jul 2018
RESTful APIs tutorial: Learn key web service design principles
RESTful Java API designs shouldn't be hard to get right. This RESTful APIs tutorial shows core RESTful principles concerning URL structure and the effective use of HTTP methods. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Jul 2018
IT projects and software teams need to include Agile people
Not every idea deserves equal weight in a software development project, but Agile people know that garnering input from a wide array of stakeholders is the key to success. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 May 2018
Packaging Java programs in the modern age of microservices and mobile apps
The packaging of Java programs has taken an interesting turn, as the original JAR format becomes a favorite even for Java web apps deployed as microservices. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 May 2018
How to calculate McCabe cyclomatic complexity in Java
An understanding of how to calculate McCabe cyclomatic complexity in Java is the first step in better testing and improved software quality. Continue Reading
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Feature
02 May 2018
Quality and consistency key to self-driving car technology
How do you test self-driving car technology when the consequences of an error can be fatal? Here are some best practices for testing automotive apps and self-driving car software. Continue Reading
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News
29 Mar 2018
Fair-use defense fails in Oracle vs. Google Android lawsuit
A final appeal in the Oracle vs. Google Android lawsuit has come down against Alphabet Inc., asserting its use of Java APIs did not constitute fair use. Continue Reading
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News
22 Mar 2018
IBM fiddles with Apple on new AI services
IBM and Apple extended their existing enterprise mobility partnership with tools to help developers build Watson-based AI services for the IBM Cloud. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Mar 2018
Stay ahead of Java security issues like SQL and LDAP injections
Java security best practices include validating input to prevent injection attacks and managing malicious JAR vulnerabilities. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Mar 2018
Application security vulnerabilities are often known exploits
How hard is it to secure an enterprise application? It's not hard, especially given the fact that most application security vulnerabilities are known threats with simple solutions. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
27 Feb 2018
Re-introducing Jakarta EE: Eclipse takes Java EE back to its roots
The Eclipse Foundation has decided on Jakarta EE as the new name for Java EE as the organization moves to advance enterprise Java under the aegis of Eclipse. Continue Reading
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Opinion
12 Feb 2018
Why this quantum computing breakthrough is a security risk
Quantum computing will void pretty much all security encryption techniques and open the door to hackers. Here's how to protect your data when it does. Continue Reading
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Guide
27 Dec 2017
Neutralizing threats and creating a secure Java software stack
This essential guide explores how developers can create a secure Java software stack, from the APIs used by the JDK to the methodologies used by Agile and DevOps teams. Continue Reading
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Opinion
15 Dec 2017
The problem with bitcoin and blockchain technology
It's not just bitcoin's prodigious appetite -- it uses as much energy as the country of Slovenia. Security scares and long transaction times cast doubt on its viability. Continue Reading
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Podcast
04 Oct 2017
Manico and Grimstad bring Java tech to life at JavaOne 2017
Engaging speakers like Jim Manico or Ivar Grimstad can make all the difference when choosing a session at a conference like JavaOne 2017 than the session syllabus. Continue Reading
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News
02 Oct 2017
How JSR-375 simplifies and standardizes Java EE security
Java EE security has always been a mixed bag in terms of simplicity and standardization, but the new Java EE Security API, JSR-375, plans to change all of that. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Sep 2017
How to remove plain text passwords for a secure Java code base
Here are some strategies to remove plain text passwords from configuration files and your code base. It's one way a secure Java app can deter a malicious attack. Continue Reading
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Podcast
06 Sep 2017
Cloud-native tooling for managing loosely coupled systems evolving
How does an organization manage loosely coupled systems built with containers and microservices? Apprenda's Sinclair Schuller discusses how tools are evolving. Continue Reading
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Guide
16 Aug 2017
Amazon S3 outage: A guide to getting over cloud failures
Developers have taken the Amazon S3 outage and learned to build failover and resiliency into a Java cloud application. Learn about the dangers of moving apps to the cloud. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Jul 2017
Improved application performance management tools help simplify DevOps
As more organization take a DevOps based approach to continuous delivery, many are finding that new application performance management tools are aiding their DevOps transitions. Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Jun 2017
How evolutionary architecture simplified hypothesis driven development
Learn how a new approach to evolving technical architectures promises to make it easier to test out hypothesis about business improvement, application performance, and user experience. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 May 2017
What to do if Amazon is down, because your S3 apps don't have to be
Just because Amazon is down doesn't mean your S3 apps have to be. Here are some tips and strategies for protecting yourself against the next Amazon S3 outage. Continue Reading
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News
12 May 2017
Microsoft supports trend toward containers, serverless computing
At its Build 2017 conference, Microsoft highlighted new technologies focusing on containers, serverless computing and microservices as part of its DevOps strategy. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
10 May 2017
Java modularity's future takes a hit as Project Jigsaw (JPMS) is voted down
Can you believe all of this drama surrounding Project Jigsaw and the Java modularity debate? I was so thankful yesterday when President Donald Trump fired the director of the FBI, drowning out all ... Continue Reading
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Feature
10 May 2017
Getting mobile phone apps iPhone certified and Play Store published
So you've developed a mobile phone app. What's next? Here we explore getting mobile phone apps iPhone certified and Play Store published. Continue Reading
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Opinion
05 May 2017
Cloud-native vendor consolidation key to container technology adoption
Production deployment of containers and microservices currently requires the best technologies. Cloud-native vendor consolidation will simplify decisions but limit choice. Continue Reading
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Opinion
01 May 2017
Software ethics and why 'Uber developer' stains a professional resume
After all of the playboy antics of the CEO, along with the unethical practices of fingerprinting and geofencing, the term 'Uber developer' is a stain on any professional resume. Continue Reading