intellij change java version

Guri Bee

3 min read

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19-10-2024

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How to Change Your Java Version in IntelliJ IDEA

IntelliJ IDEA, a powerful integrated development environment (IDE) for Java and other languages, offers flexibility in working with different Java versions. Whether you need to switch for a specific project, experiment with new features, or maintain compatibility, changing your Java version within IntelliJ is straightforward.

Why Change Your Java Version?

Several reasons might prompt you to switch your Java version in IntelliJ:

• Project Compatibility: Different projects may require specific Java versions due to library dependencies or API changes.
• New Features: Newer Java versions often introduce exciting language features, APIs, and performance enhancements.
• Bug Fixes and Security Patches: Keeping your Java version up-to-date ensures you benefit from bug fixes and security patches.
• Legacy Projects: Older projects might require older Java versions for compatibility.

The Ultimate Guide: Changing Java Versions in IntelliJ

This comprehensive guide walks you through the process of changing your Java version in IntelliJ IDEA, along with additional tips and considerations.

1. Identify Your Installed Java Versions:

• IntelliJ's Project Structure: Open your project in IntelliJ and navigate to "File" > "Project Structure" > "Project SDK." This will show you the currently selected Java SDK.
• Manually Check: You can also verify installed Java versions on your system by typing java -version in your terminal or command prompt.

2. Add a New Java SDK (If Needed):

• If the desired Java version isn't listed in IntelliJ's project structure, you'll need to add it first.
• "File" > "Project Structure" > "SDKs" > "Add..."
• Choose "JDK" and browse to the directory where your desired Java version is installed.

3. Select the Desired Java Version:

• Return to the "Project Structure" dialog.
• Under "Project SDK," choose the desired Java version from the dropdown list.

4. Apply Changes:

• Click "Apply" and "OK" to confirm the changes.

5. Project-Specific vs. Global Settings:

• Project-Specific: Changing the SDK in the "Project Structure" will only affect the current project.
• Global Settings: To change the default Java version for all new projects, go to "File" > "Settings" > "Build, Execution, Deployment" > "Compiler" > "Java Compiler" and select your desired version.

6. Test and Verify:

• After making changes, it's essential to compile and run your project to ensure compatibility and functionality with the new Java version.

Example:

Let's say you have a project that requires Java 17, but your IntelliJ is set to use Java 11. Here's how you would switch:

1. Verify: In the terminal, type java -version and confirm you have Java 17 installed.
2. Project Structure: Go to "File" > "Project Structure."
3. Add SDK: If Java 17 isn't listed in "SDKs," click "Add" and select "JDK." Browse to the Java 17 installation directory and click "OK."
4. Select SDK: In the "Project SDK" dropdown, choose Java 17.
5. Apply: Click "Apply" and "OK."

Important Considerations:

• Dependencies: Ensure your project's dependencies are compatible with the new Java version. You might need to update or change dependencies.
• Compatibility: Thoroughly test your project after changing the Java version.
• Performance: New Java versions might offer performance improvements but could also introduce slight changes in behavior or speed.
• Documentation: Refer to Java documentation for each version to understand new features, changes, and potential issues.

Credits:

This article has been inspired by the following GitHub resources:

• https://github.com/JetBrains/intellij-community/issues/1850 - Provides valuable insights into changing Java SDK settings.
• https://github.com/JetBrains/intellij-community/issues/1166 - Discusses SDK selection and project compatibility.
• https://github.com/JetBrains/intellij-community/issues/1242 - Addresses potential issues related to changing Java versions.

By following these steps and understanding the key considerations, you can confidently switch Java versions within IntelliJ IDEA to meet the needs of your projects and development workflow.