Java Applets

Overview If you are looking for a technology that allows you to securely and easily add dynamic effects and content to your Web pages, regardless of the OS or browser type, then Java applets are for you. For beginning users of Java, there are many online resources that can help you get started. For more advanced Java applet programmers and Web designers, the Web offers resources such as Java applet downloads, design guides, and security information. 

General Information Most of us have heard of Java programming, Java applets, and JavaScript. What are the differences between these technologies? Who created Java and when did it happen? Visit this Webopedia page to read a definition of “Java applets” and to obtain simple answers to these questions. Another good general description of Java technology can be found at www.simplythebest.net. Or go to the Java source, Sun Microsystems (java.sun.com), for detailed information, current news articles, new product announcements, and discussion boards. 

Java Applet Resources Java applets have become one of the most popular alternatives to straight HTML for Web page display and content, primarily because of the cross-platform compatibility it provides. A wide variety of Java applet resources can be accessed on the Internet, from free downloads, to tutorials and discussion boards. Visit the Yahoo! Java applets directory page for a list of links to numerous Java applet sites. Also be sure to visit the site freewarejava.com. This site offers a wide variety of Java resources including an extensive collection of Java applet tutorials and downloads. You can read reviews of new Java-based products at www.jars.com.

Online tutorials are a great way to learn about Java applets and the features they can add to your Web site. Tutorials can be found free of charge at many Web sites. The following list of links will lead you to just a few of the best Java applet tutorials.

• www.htmlgoodies.com/beyond/ja.html
• javaboutique.internet.com
• wsabstract.com/javaindex.shtml

Java Applets for Download Pre-made Java applets are readily available for download on the Web. These applets can help you to add interesting effects and content to your Web site. Some of these downloads are available free of charge for non-commercial purposes, while other applets can be purchased for commercial application. Visit any of the following sites to sample the variety of applets available online.

• java.sun.com/products/plugin
• www.javafile.com
• www.realapplets.com/applets.asp
• java.about.com/od/freejavaapplets

Java Applets and Security One of the major concerns about Java applets is security. How safe are Java applets? What specific threats are present with Java applets? To answer these questions, go to the following FAQ page: java.sun.com/sfaq. The site www.cigital.com/hostile- applets provides information regarding the act of manipulating applets to become “hostile” to your PC and how to protect yourself from this threat. The page homepage.tinet.ie/~leslie/testpage/security.htm contains a thorough article about Java applets and the security issues associated with them.