Java is a widely used programming language renowned for its portability and versatility. Developed by Sun Microsystems in the mid-1990s, Java allows developers to write code once and run it on any platform, making it platform-independent. With its object-oriented programming approach, Java provides a robust and secure environment for building various applications, from desktop software to web and mobile applications. It features automatic memory management, known as garbage collection, which simplifies memory allocation and deallocation. Java's extensive standard library and vast ecosystem of third-party libraries offer developers a wide range of tools and resources to expedite development. Additionally, Java's strong emphasis on security and its extensive community support contribute to its enduring popularity in the software development industry.