What is a Fat JAR and How Does it Differ from Other JAR Types?

What is a Fat JAR?

The term "fat JAR" refers to a packaging approach for Java applications. It involves combining multiple elements into a single JAR file, including:

1. Application Code: This includes the source code you write in your code editor, representing the core functionality of your application.
2. Direct Dependencies: These are other libraries or JAR files that your application directly relies upon, such as database drivers or utility libraries.
3. Runtime Environment: This includes the necessary components and libraries that are required for the Java Virtual Machine (JVM) to execute your application, such as the Java Runtime Environment (JRE) or OpenJDK.

In contrast to a "thin" JAR, which only contains the application code and direct dependencies, a fat JAR includes all of these elements, making it self-contained and ready to run without the need for external dependencies or a separate application server.

Other JAR Types:

• Skinny JAR: Contains only the application code.
• Thin JAR: Contains application code and direct dependencies.
• Hollow JAR: Contains only the runtime environment.

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