Downloading the Java Developer's Kit (JDK) installation file

1. Using a browser, go to web site java.sun.com/products/jdk/1.1
2. Choose JDK 1.1 Win 32 Release.
3. Scroll down and choose option number 1: Dowload Windows 95/NT 4.0 JDK 1.1.6 Software.
4. Choose Agree when presented with the licensing agreement.
5. Choose FTP download jdk 1.1.6-win32.exe. The HTTP option will work as well.
6. Save the file on your local disk drive (C) at the highest level.
7. The file will now download onto your computer. This will take some time.
8. After the file is downloaded, you may leave the browser.

Installing the JDK once it has been downloaded

1. Double click on the installation file that you downloaded. This will run the installation program.
2. Choose Yes on the initial pop up window.
3. The program then extracts the necessary files and prepares the wizard that will assist you in the rest of the installation process.
4. Choose Next on the introductory screen.
5. Choose Yes at the license screen.
6. The next screen allows you to choose the components you want to install and the directory into which you will install them. Allow the default choices to remain and choose Next to continue.
7. You will probably be prompted that the directory you choose does not exist. Choose Yes so that the install program will create the directory.
8. Choose Next when it requests confirmation of your choices.
9. The components are then installed, which should take only a few moments.
10. You will then get a final pop up box to finalize the installation. Deselect the checkbox that suggests you read the readme file (unless you want to read it). Choose Finish to complete the installation.

Changing your path so that the system can find the installed components

1. A batch file called autoexec.bat runs every time your system boots up. It performs various setup activities, including defining the iniital path that is followed to find a program. You need to augment your path so that the system can find the JDK components when you need them.
2. Use a PC editor, such as WordPad, to edit the autoexec.bat file, which is stored at the highest level of your C: drive.
3. Find the line that sets the PATH variable. The path is set to a list of directories. Add the directory C:\jdk1.1.6\bin to the path. Make sure you use the semi-colon as a separator in the path list.
4. Save the file (as text) under the same name.
5. Restart your computer to set the new path.

Using the JDK to develop Java programs

1. When developing a Java progam on your local machine, you will need two active windows: one in which to edit your program and one in which you execute the jdk commands.
2. You may use any local editor you choose (such as WordPad) to edit your programs. Make sure you save the program as text.
3. You execute JDK commands in a DOS window. To get a DOS window, choose run from the start menu. Then type in command and press return.
4. Change directories in your DOS window until you are in the directory in which your program exists.
5. At this point, the regular JDK commands will work as they do on the Unix platform.