What is Java?
Java is a programming language that allows small programs (called applets) to run on your computer when you launch a Web site.  Java has many built-in security features.  For this reason, it can be safely downloaded to your computer through the Internet and run immediately without fear the of viruses or damaging your computer or files in other ways.

Once applets are placed on your web page, they can be downloaded to your visitors' machines when they view that site.  When a visitor requests your web page, the java applet will be executed and displayed in the visitor's web browser.

What exactly can a java program do?
A java program can be written to perform almost any task that a regular computer can do.  Simply write the Java program and then include it in a web page.

Various java applets that you may have run across during your Internet journeys include: scrolling text, pop-up windows, calendars, passwording, clocks, calculators, scrolling text buttons, links and E-mail, color scripts, alert boxes and prompts, games, counters, and much more.

Which web browser can handle java applications?
Java can now be viewed using either Netscape Navigator or Microsoft's Internet Explorer.

What positive effects can java have on my web site?
When used appropriately, Java can make your web site more aesthetically pleasing.  More importantly,  java can make your web site more useful for your visitors.

What negative effects can java have on my web site?
Java is not a necessity.  If your web site includes Java programs be cautious of the length of time it takes your site to load.  Many applets take lengthy periods of time to load.  Visitors do not always want to wait around to view such an "extra".

Some java applets can cause a web browser to crash. Crashing web browsers are a definite way to end return visits to your web page.

How can I get a java program for my web site?
In order to use java on your web site, you have two options. You can learn how to write Java programs yourself or you can go to one of the many sites on the Internet that offer free Java programs. Many repositories offer free Java applets, or cut & paste JavaScript, with instructions for including them on your site. Other repositories offer tutorials for learning the java language.

The Java(TM) Boutique: The Ultimate Java Applet Resource
http://javaboutique.internet.com/

Applet Depot
http://www.ericharshbarger.org/java/

ACME Java - Software
http://www.acme.com/java/software/

Java Password Protect Page
http://javaboutique.internet.com/password/

Links: ADitudes Web Site Resource Center
http://aditudes.com/java.htm

The Free Site is the best place to find freebies, free stuff, samples
http://www.thefreesite.com/

Global Free Java Software for Teaching Initiative
http://freeware.thesphere.com/

Free Java - Get free Java or Javascripts to spice up your website!
http://www.ozemail.com.au/~dwarren/websitetools/java.html

The WDVL: JavaScript Tutorial for Programmers
http://www.stars.com/Authoring/JavaScript/Tutorial/index.html

The JavaScript Source - "Cut & Paste" JavaScript Library
http://javascript.internet.com/toc.html

Applets
http://java.sun.com/applets/

Java Studio Installation Instructions for SPARC Platform
http://www.sun.com/studio/

Java in Education
http://www.sun.com/products-n-solutions/edu/java/index.html