Best Way to Open a JAR File And Run On Windows

Java Archive (JAR) files are very important in the distribution and running of Java software. As a developer distributing your software or as a user seeking to run a program, you should know how to open JAR files on Windows PC. However, most people find the operation confusing because they lack sufficient technical knowledge or because the operating system does not provide implicit support.

Fortunately, by having the correct tools and information, it’s easy to run JAR file on your Windows computer. To assist you in understanding how to open JAR files on Windows 10 and other platforms, this tutorial describes the tips to open and execute JAR files easily. So that you can get started with your preferred Java programs without difficulty. In this article, we will be covering everything about what JAR files are, how to open JAR files on Windows PC, and what are the best JAR file openers we can utilize to run JAR files. 

What are JAR Files?

JAR, or Java Archive files, as the name suggests, is an archive file. The archive file is a single file that contains other files compressed together to save storage space, reduce the possibility of error, and for a variety of other reasons. With the exception of being utilized by the Java Runtime Environment, they are very similar to ZIP files. And that’s what the JAR file is. JAR, which is based on WinZip, is a file archive used by Java to store everything from multimedia files to source code and is accessible through Java applets. 

In addition to providing information about the files contained within the JAR, such as compiled Java code, also known as CLASS files, security certificates, image files, audio files, etc., a manifest is a unique metafile that regulates the behavior of the JAR. The JAR file can be read and executed by the Runtime Environment with a single request. It might be a game, an application theme, a browser add-on, or something else entirely. It has numerous applications for desktop and mobile devices. Additionally, you can move and share thousands of files with ease because they are compressed.

How to Install JRE (Java Runtime Environment)?

A Java Runtime Environment (JRE) is required in order to execute a JAR file. The only file formats that the Java Runtime Environment supports are executable JAR files. Your files can only be viewed if they are not in this format. If JRE is already installed on your computer, all you have to do is double-click the JAR file to launch it.

To open JAR file on Windows, install the Java Runtime Environment on your computer using these steps:

1. Download the latest version of Java Runtime Environment from its official download page.

2. Click the download button after selecting the version that satisfies your system requirements.
3. To install the file, double-click the .exe file and select Install. The downloaded files are located on your computer in the download files folder.

4. Install the JRE version. Installation takes only a few moments. To see the installation progress, look at the green bar on your screen.
5. Press the “Close” button. When the green bar is full, the installation is finished. On your screen, you should now see the message “You have successfully installed Java.”

Also know: What is a BAK File and How do I Open it on Windows?

How to Open JAR File on Windows PC?

To execute an application or run code contained within a JAR file on a Windows 10 system, it is essential to have the Java Runtime Environment (JRE) installed on your computer. The JRE provides the necessary libraries and components that allow Java applications to run. There are multiple methods to run JAR files, each suited to different user preferences and scenarios. In the following sections, we will explore these methods to open JAR file on Windows in detail to help you choose the best one for your needs.

How to Open JAR Files using JRE (Java Runtime Environment)

To successfully run JAR files using the Java Runtime Environment (JRE), follow these detailed steps:

1. Right-click the JAR file to open it.
2. Select the “open with” option. When a dialogue box appears, tap “Choose Another App.”
3. There will be a dialogue box asking, “How would you like to open this file?” Scroll down to the last option and select “More Apps.”

4. Choose “Look for More Apps on This PC”. After clicking on another app, you’ll be taken to the Programs directory on Local Disk C.

5. Select the Java folder. Java can be found in the Programs File. Go to C>Program Files> Java> JRE 1.8.0> bin on your local disk. Click to make Java.exe the default.

How to Run JAR File Through the Command Prompt

To open JAR file on Windows using the Command Prompt, it is essential to ensure that Java is properly installed on your system. In the following steps, we will guide you through how to open JAR files on Windows PC.

1. Hit the Windows key and enter “cmd” into the keyboard to launch Command Prompt. This will take you to the command prompt. Run as the administrator.
2. Enter the following command: “java -jar C:pathtofile.jar.” In the command prompt, type “pathtofile,” which is the file’s path.
3. Execute the command. The JRE is used by Windows to interpret the JAR file. The Java application should now be running.

Apart from these methods to open JAR file on Windows PCs, there are some effective JAR file openers that you can use to run JAR files.

Best JAR File Openers

There are many online tools available that let you upload a JAR file, unzip it easily, and then download it directly to your computer. So, let’s explore some of the best JAR file openers available, highlighting their features and ease of use.

WinRAR

WinRAR is most well-known for effectively compressing file formats on Windows. Its user-friendly interface and free download make it perfect for extracting JAR archive formats. WinRAR allows immediate access to archiving and extraction tools by integrating with the user interface of the operating system. Its lightning-fast operation makes it possible to compress and decompress large amounts of data quickly.

WinZip

WinZip is a user-friendly program that lets users compress and decompress files. It assists you in opening JAR files, extracting data from them, and re-archiving them in any format. It is among the most widely used programs to open JAR file on Windows PCs and has secure encryption. Users adore its efficiency and adaptability.

7-Zip

7-Zip is an open-source program that is frequently used for data archiving and compression. With the exception of the open-source component, this archive viewing and extracting application is comparable to WinRAR and can open JAR files. 7-Zip is ideal for coders who need to work with JAR files. It has a traditional user interface and has been around for quite some time. By entering intricate commands into the console, programmers can modify the archiving.

File Viewer Plus

File Viewer Plus is a versatile file opener capable of opening over 300 different file types. File Viewer Plus is an application that allows users to view, edit, save, and convert files within the Windows operating system. With File Viewer Plus, you can edit, save, and create a wide range of multimedia formats. Additionally, File Viewer Plus allows you to evaluate the contents of files and convert them into a variety of formats.

UltimateZip

UltimateZip simplifies the process of reading and compressing IP files. It makes archived files easy to compress and extract. UltimateZip supports a variety of archive formats, such as JAR files. It includes software protection capabilities due to the AES 256-bit encryption. The software also offers cloud-based support.

Also know: What Are Prefetch Files and How to Delete Them in Windows PC

Final Takeaway

If you follow the correct procedures, opening a JAR file on Windows can be a simple process. By ensuring you have the correct Java Runtime Environment installed, you can easily execute JAR files by either double-clicking them or using the command line. Finding out how to open JAR files on Windows not only enhances your ability to run Java applications but also helps you troubleshoot any potential issues. With this knowledge, you’ll be well-equipped to handle and run JAR files efficiently and enjoy a seamless experience with Java-based applications on your Windows system.