Is It Still Advisable to Learn Java EE? Best Ways to Start

Java Enterprise Edition (Java EE) has been the backbone of enterprise-scale applications for over two decades, providing a robust and scalable environment for building complex and distributed web applications. However, with the rise of newer technologies like Go, Node.js, and others, is it still worth the effort to learn Java EE? This article aims to explore the current relevance of Java EE and provide guidance on how to start learning it effectively.

Current Relevance of Java EE

Despite the emergence of newer and more lightweight frameworks like Spring and microservices architectures, Java EE remains a crucial skill in the enterprise world. It offers a comprehensive set of services and APIs that are specifically designed to handle large-scale, high-availability applications. Additionally, many large enterprises, including automotive giant General Motors (GM), continue to build applications using Java EE, particularly the Spring Framework.

Spring Framework, a popular open-source application framework, has become the de facto choice for building enterprise applications. It provides a wide range of features that are similar to those offered by Java EE but in a more lightweight and flexible manner. Spring's popularity is due to its ability to integrate seamlessly with other frameworks and tools, making it highly adaptable to different enterprise needs.

Why Learn Java EE if Spring Is So Popular?

While Spring Framework is widely used and highly effective, learning Java EE still has its merits. Java EE is a more complete and standardized solution, offering a broader range of built-in features and services for building enterprise applications. It is often chosen when:

High Availability and Reliability Are Critical: Java EE's built-in cluster support, application caching, and fault-tolerance mechanisms make it ideal for mission-critical applications.

Broad Scalability Requirements: For projects that require horizontal scalability, Java EE's EJBs and JPA can provide robust support.

Compliance with Enterprise Standards: If your organization needs to adhere to strict enterprise standards, Java EE ensures a consistent and secure development environment.

Furthermore, learning Java EE can provide a solid foundation for understanding modern enterprise architectures and the underlying principles of building scalable and reliable applications. This knowledge is valuable, regardless of your chosen framework in the long run.

Best Ways to Start Learning Java EE

Starting your journey with Java EE can be daunting, but with the right approach and resources, it can be a rewarding experience. Here are some of the best ways to begin learning Java EE:

Step 1: Understand the Basics

Before diving into Java EE, ensure you have a solid understanding of basic Java programming concepts. Familiarize yourself with Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) principles, Java syntax, and data structures. This foundation will make learning Java EE more accessible and manageable.

Step 2: Choose the Right Resources

There are numerous resources available to help you learn Java EE, including online tutorials, books, and training courses. Some of the best resources include:

Educational Platforms: Udemy, Coursera, and edX offer comprehensive Java EE courses that cover both the basics and advanced topics.

Books: "Java EE Programming" by S Ravi and "Java EE 7 Tutorial" by Jesse Christensen are excellent starting points.

Blogs and Forums: Sites like Baeldung, Thoughtworks Tech Blog, and Stack Overflow provide valuable insights and community support.

Step 3: Build Practical Projects

The most effective way to learn Java EE is by building real-world projects. Start with simple projects and gradually increase the complexity. Some recommended project ideas include:

CRM System: Develop a customer relationship management (CRM) system to practice using JPA for data management.

Enterprise-Level App: Build a simple enterprise application that demonstrates the use of EJBs, JMS, and WebServices.

Horizontal Scalability System: Create a distributed application to gain experience with cluster support and fault tolerance.

Step 4: Utilize a Debugger and IDE

A robust Integrated Development Environment (IDE) like Eclipse, IntelliJ IDEA, or NetBeans can significantly enhance your learning experience. IDEs provide features like debugging tools, code auto-completion, and integration with build tools, which can help you develop and test your Java EE applications more efficiently.

Step 5: Join a Community

Joining a community can provide you with support, feedback, and networking opportunities. Participate in forums, attendMeetups, and engage with other Java EE developers. This can help you stay updated with the latest trends and best practices in the field.

Conclusion

While newer and more lightweight frameworks like Spring and Node.js have gained popularity, Java EE still holds a place in the enterprise world. Its comprehensive set of services and standardized approach make it a valuable skill to learn. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can start your journey in Java EE and build a strong foundation for your future career in enterprise development.