Search code examples
javamethodsprogram-entry-point

How do Java programs run without defining the main method?

I was looking through some Java source and noticed that the main method wasn't defined.

How does Java compile source code without knowing where to start?

Solution

  • The main method is only used when the Java Virtual Machine is executing your code. Code cannot be executed without a main method but it can still be compiled.

    When compiling code, you usually specify a set of files on the command line e.g.

    javac MyClass1.java MyClass2.java

    The Java compiler (javac) examines each class you passed to it and compiles it into a .class file.

    One reason Java source code may be missing a main method is because it is designed to be used as a library, instead of being executed.

    Something you may find interesting: although the source code compiled by the Java compiler does not need a main method, the source code for the Java compiler itself does have a main method.