Formerly a part of the Apache Jakarta Project and referred to as Jakarta Struts, Java Struts is a popular framework for the Java 2 Platform Enterprise Edition (J2EE), which, in turn, goes by the name Java EE. Java Struts is the framework developers build upon to create web-based applications, saving time on planning and development by not having to build the entire web application from scratch.

Developers like Java Struts because they allow your code to be platform independent, so your program should work on an older computer or a future generation one. If you are on the fence, add the three questions below to any Java Struts list you may have. If the answer to all three is yes, then it's time to find a Java Struts provider and get started.

1. Will you be using Java Struts for the J2EE platform?

2. Are you building applications that need to work in a web browser?

3. Are you building applications that will use JavaServer Pages?

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find Java Struts online

In order to download Java Struts you must visit The Apache Software Foundation. Apache's website provides users with a variety of Java Strut-related documentation and even hosts informative discussion blogs. Perhaps most importantly, the Apache Software Foundation provides the latest version of Java Struts.

I recommend: The only website for Java Struts is The Apache Software Foundation. The Java EE platform, the framework that is needed to run Java Struts, can be downloaded via the Sun Developer Network.

Receive training on Java Struts coding

Even if you are already familiar with Java, refreshing your skills or those of your developer is never a bad thing. There are several places that provide training in developing web applications using Java struts. Choices range from online tutorials to offsite training courses.

I recommend: Hands On Technology Transfer offers a five-day course named "Java EE Web Application Development with Apache Struts 1." Coreservlets provides an online Jakarta Struts tutorial.

Keep up to speed on Java Struts information

As is the case with all technology, Java Struts are constantly evolving and improving. For a developer, perhaps there is nothing worse than being behind the times when it comes to application development. Fortunately, there are many ways to keep up to date on the latest and greatest where Java Struts are concerned.

I recommend: Jupiter Media has discussion forums and bulletin boards where developers share information about using Java Struts and much more. Network World's JavaWorld website offers readers a chance to sign up for various Network World technology specific newsletters and technology alert services. They even have a twice weekly online newsletter called JavaWorld Enterprise Java Alert.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  There are two ways to install Java Struts, depending on the servlet you are using. The simplest way to install Java Struts is to copy a small Struts application from 'struts-blank.war' located in the download file obtained from Apache's website. If you're using Tomcat or another servlet container, place the war-file in the 'webapps' folder and restart your server. 'Struts-blank' will begin running.