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[previous article] [next article]HotJava is a browser that allows for more interaction between the user and the Web. HotJava can do everything that Netscape and Mosaic can do - and more. HotJava can run executable programs written in Java, the special language developed just for HotJava applications.
How Can I Use it?
From any ECN workstation, HotJava can be started by typing hotjava. This will lead to a window asking about what kind of security you would like to use. Once you make a choice, HotJava is ready to go.
A good place to start learning what HotJava can do for you is on the HotJava homepage. Once HotJava is ready, click on the home button.
What About Security?
With HotJava, the compiled code is downloaded by the viewer and is run through several security checks. As a backup measure, the program is run in its own specific memory space - "protected memory" - that will prevent any bugs from being able to do any damage.
Why Should I Use HotJava?
"That's all fine and well, but why should I use HotJava?" you ask. Well, using the Java language, any multimedia format can be incorporated into any document. In addition, you can make your Web pages interactive through games or other demonstrations.
The new HotJava technology is gaining in popularity - so much so that it will be incorporated as an extension in the next release of Netscape Navigator. Just another reason to try it now!
The Bad News
As with anything new, HotJava still has a few bugs in it. These include a non-optimized system of security checks that greatly slows down the browser, and very strict HTML requirements. HotJava does not recognize any Netscape or Mosaic extensions - only the bare bones HTML. Because of this, pages not written expressly for HotJava viewing may not look like they were intended.
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