| Part | Meaning | | :--- | :--- | | 1.8.0 | Java 8 (Major version 52 in bytecode) | | _291 | (Security patches + bug fixes) |
If you have ever typed java -version into a terminal and seen java version "1.8.0_xxx" , you might have done a double-take. "Wait," you thought, "I thought we were on Java 8?"
choco install openjdk8 $ java -version openjdk version "1.8.0_402" OpenJDK Runtime Environment (Temurin)(build 1.8.0_402-b08) OpenJDK 64-Bit Server VM (Temurin)(build 25.402-b08, mixed mode) The Critical Warning: End of Life (EOL) As of 2025, public free updates for Java 1.8.0 ended years ago . While some distributions (like Azul and Corretto) offer extended support, you are operating on borrowed time if you are touching the internet.
If you are starting a new project today? Use Java 17 or 21. But if you are maintaining a legacy system, treat your 1.8.0 environment with respect. It has survived a decade of cloud shifts, framework churn, and developer hubris.
sdk install java 8.0.402-tem sdk default java 8.0.402-tem