Java is a network-oriented programming language that is specifically designed for writing programs that can be safely downloaded to your computer through the Internet and immediately run without fear of viruses or other harm to your computer or files. Using small Java programs (called "Applets"), Web pages can include functions such as animations, calculators, and other fancy tricks.

A small Java program that can be embedded in an HTML page. Applets differ from Java applications in that they are not allowed to access certain resources on the local computer, such as files and serial devices (modems, printers, etc.). They cannot communicate with most other computers across a network.