How to Install Java on Mac (Step-by-Step Guide)

Java is essential for running many applications and development tools. Follow this guide to install Java on your macOS system.

Step 1: Check if Java is Already Installed

Before installing Java, check if it’s already installed on your Mac:

1. Open Terminal (Finder > Applications > Utilities > Terminal).
2. Type the following command and press Enter:bashCopyEditjava -version
3. If Java is installed, it will display the version number. If not, you’ll see a message like “No Java runtime present”.

Step 2: Download Java for Mac

1. Visit the official Oracle Java Downloads page:
   https://www.oracle.com/java/technologies/javase-downloads.html
2. Choose macOS Installer (.dmg) under the latest Java SE (Standard Edition) version.

Step 3: Install Java on Your Mac

1. Open the .dmg file you just downloaded.
2. Double-click the Java.pkg installer.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
4. Once finished, close the installer and move it to the Trash if prompted.

Step 4: Verify Java Installation

1. Open Terminal again.
2. Run the following command:bashCopyEditjava -version
3. If Java is installed correctly, you’ll see the installed Java version displayed.

Step 5: Set Java Environment Variables (Optional – For Developers)

If you need Java for development, set the JAVA_HOME variable:

1. Open Terminal and run:bashCopyEdit/usr/libexec/java_home -V
2. Note the path of the installed Java version.
3. Add the path to your shell configuration file (~/.zshrc or ~/.bash_profile, depending on your shell):bashCopyEditexport JAVA_HOME=/Library/Java/JavaVirtualMachines/jdk-XX.X.X.jdk/Contents/Home
4. Save the file and apply changes by running:bashCopyEditsource ~/.zshrc # or source ~/.bash_profile
5. Verify with:bashCopyEditecho $JAVA_HOME

Final Thoughts

You’ve successfully installed Java on your Mac! Now you can run Java applications and develop software using Java-based tools.