Beginning Java EE 7 summary

Understanding Java EE 7

In Beginning Java EE 7 by Antonio Goncalves, we delve into the world of Java EE 7, a platform designed for building scalable, reliable, and secure enterprise applications. The book begins with an introduction to Java EE 7, its architecture, and the various APIs it encompasses. We get a comprehensive understanding of the platform's capabilities, its role in enterprise application development, and its support for modern web technologies.

Antonio then leads us into the world of web applications, starting with the basics of creating a simple web application using Java EE 7. We learn about Servlets, JSPs, and the new features introduced in Java EE 7, such as the simplified web.xml and the new expression language (EL) enhancements. The author ensures that the reader grasps the fundamental concepts before moving on to more complex topics.

Understanding Java EE 7 APIs

Next, Beginning Java EE 7 takes us through the various APIs within the Java EE 7 platform. We explore the Java Persistence API (JPA) for object-relational mapping, the Java Transaction API (JTA) for managing transactions in enterprise applications, and the Java Message Service (JMS) for asynchronous communication between distributed systems. Each API is explained in detail, with practical examples to reinforce understanding.

Antonio also introduces us to the Contexts and Dependency Injection (CDI) API, which is one of the most significant additions to Java EE 7. We learn how CDI promotes loose coupling, enhances testability, and simplifies the development of enterprise applications. Furthermore, we explore the Bean Validation API, which provides a standardized way of defining and enforcing constraints on domain model objects.

Developing Enterprise Applications

After covering the various Java EE 7 APIs, Beginning Java EE 7 shifts focus to building enterprise applications. We start by understanding the concept of a multi-tier architecture and how Java EE 7 supports it. We then explore the development of the business layer using Enterprise JavaBeans (EJB) and the presentation layer using JavaServer Faces (JSF).

Antonio guides us through the process of creating a full-fledged enterprise application, integrating the various APIs and components we've learned about. We learn about managing transactions, securing our application, and handling exceptions in a robust and efficient manner. The author emphasizes best practices and design patterns to ensure the development of high-quality enterprise applications.

Exploring Java EE 7's Other Features

In the latter part of the book, Beginning Java EE 7 delves into some of the advanced features of the platform. We explore the Batch Applications API, which enables the development of robust and scalable batch processing applications. Antonio also introduces us to the WebSocket API, which facilitates full-duplex communication between client and server over a single, long-lived connection.

Finally, the book provides an overview of Java EE 7's support for RESTful web services. We learn how to create and consume RESTful services using the JAX-RS API, emphasizing the principles of resource-oriented architecture. The book concludes with a discussion on testing and deployment strategies for Java EE 7 applications.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, Beginning Java EE 7 by Antonio Goncalves serves as an excellent starting point for developers looking to explore the world of enterprise application development using Java EE 7. The book provides a comprehensive overview of the platform, its APIs, and its capabilities, and guides the reader through the process of building robust and scalable enterprise applications. Whether you're new to Java EE or an experienced developer looking to upgrade your skills, this book offers valuable insights and practical knowledge.