Java Tips for Oracle JDK to OpenJDK Migration
With an abrupt licensing shift for Oracle JDK, many users are planning their Oracle JDK to OpenJDK migration. So, should you replace Oracle JDK with OpenJDK?
In this blog, we ask Java experts to weigh in with their thoughts on whether it's a good idea to replace OracleJDK with OpenJDK, and share their tips for companies who are thinking about making the switch from Oracle to OpenJDK.
Why Replace Oracle JDK With OpenJDK?
In 2018, Oracle announced that after January 2019, businesses will need to purchase a commercial license (i.e., from Oracle) in order to receive software updates. Further details are available at the Oracle Java SE Support Roadmap page.
Forrester Report: Weighing the Options for Java Support
Read this Forrester report to learn:
- Alternatives for your organizations to consider
- The importance of conducting a self-audit
- How to determine the right path for your organization
For many companies planning a migration from Oracle JDK to OpenJDK, there are some key considerations they should make, including potential impacts to testing, upgrade strategy, and more. With that in mind, we asked Java experts to share their tips for companies making the switch.
What tips can you share for companies that migrate from Oracle JDK to OpenJDK?
Dr. Heinz M. Kabutz from JavaSpecialists.eu
Dr. Heinz Kabutz (@heinzkabutz) is a Java expert with JavaSpecialists.eu.
Companies should probably consider migrating away from OracleJDK to the latest OpenJDK. They should also consider an upgrade plan that moves with the official releases of OpenJDK. That way, they get all the latest features.
Brad Wood, lead architect and developer advocate
Brad Wood (@bdw429s) is Lead Architect and Developer Advocate at Ortus Solutions, Corp.
If necessary, check to see if your organization has any restrictions on the approved software you can use. Perform a test of your system on OpenJDK and make the switch. Most of the OpenJDK issues I've seen are related to missing libraries bundled with the builds so choose a provider that tests their builds well, and ideally passes the JCK (Java Compatibility Kit). After you make the move, ensure you've subscribed to an update channel from your OpenJDK provider so you don't miss important updates.
Bill Crowell: Enterprise Architect at OpenLogic
I get asked a lot of questions by customers considering a migration to OpenJDK.
Two of the biggest questions are:
What differences are there between Oracle JDK and OpenJDK?
There are some differences between Oracle JDK 8 and OpenJDK 8 such as the cryptography policy, but in general, server-side code running on an application server should be unaffected. If you are running a desktop application using a GUI library such as JavaFX, then this is something you will need to watch out for. If you are using Oracle JDK 11, then the transition to OpenJDK 11 should be seamless. The only real way to know is to switch from Oracle JDK to OpenJDK via the JAVA_HOME environment variable and then test.
Can I build OpenJDK myself?
If you decide to build OpenJDK from scratch, then it is not trivial unless you have someone with experience. If you want a prebuilt version of OpenJDK, then AdoptOpenJDK or OpenJ9 are 2 available options.
Justin Reock: ex-Chief Evangelist of OSS and APIs at Perforce Software
Justin Reock (@jreock) is a free software evangelist and ex-Chief Evangelist of OSS and APIs at Perforce Software.
A successful migration should involve a thorough inventory of your applications that will be migrated. This inventory should include a risk and time-to-migrate analysis, and a roadmap should be followed which starts with the lowest risk and lowest time to migrate applications. This way your organization will recognize immediate success and become comfortable with the process, both technically and culturally.
For very large migrations, seeking consulting services from an organization (like OpenLogic) who is experienced in this kind of migration can make all the difference in the world, and will still represent both direct and organizational cost savings over time.
Replace Oracle JDK With OpenJDK (Windows & Beyond)
It's time to consider replacing Oracle JDK with OpenJDK for Windows and beyond.
Since Oracle announced it is starting to charge for its Java SE 8 subscriptions, is your organization looking into your options? It’s critical for development leaders to make an informed choice that considers the organization-wide impacts on cost, time, resources, and support for maintaining Java applications. In this February 2019 report, Forrester outlines four alternatives for organizations to consider:
- Continue to use Oracle Java SE
- Transition to a supported build of OpenJDK
- Embrace the OpenJDK community model
- Do nothing (and hope for the best)
The time to decide is now. Read this report from Forrester to learn more about Oracle’s Java SE subscription changes and determine the right path for your organization.