How does Java Web Start relate to Java Plug-in Technology (applets)?
The two approaches are very similar. The key difference is in the user experience. If the Java application/applet needs to interact with a web page and be tightly bound to a web browser, then applets may be the solution. On the other hand, if browser independence is important, then Java Web Start is the deployment platform of choice. There are a number of other differences, but this is the fundamental difference. Java Plug-in technology enables users to run Java applets inside a browser. Java Web Start enables users to download full-featured applications with any browser. Once they have downloaded and launched an application, the browser can be closed, while the application continues working. The application does not depend on an open browser to function. The browser can be shut down or you can go to a different web page and the application will continue running.
The two approaches are very similar. The key difference is in the user experience. If the Java application/applet needs to interact with a web page and be tightly bound to a web browser, then applets may be the solution. On the other hand, if browser independence is important, then Java Web Start is the deployment platform of choice. There are a number of other differences, but this is the fundamental difference. Java Plug-in technology enables users to run Java 2 technology-based applets inside a browser. Java Web Start enables users to download full-featured applications with any browser. Once they have downloaded and launched an application, the browser can be closed, while the application continues working. The application does not depend on an open browser to function. The browser can be shut down or you can go to a different web page and the application will continue running.
