[prog] Java and Linux

[Linda de Boer]

G'day

I am running CentOS 5, however, I have had similar issues with other 
versions in the past.

Is it just me that has to work for hours to install a fully working Java 
setup? It seems that now you have to generate special rpms because of 
some non GPL stuff. I've been using C, C++, PHP etc.  A long time ago, I 
developed in Java so I decided to get back into it. However,
I also remember it being a pain to install back then (about 6 or 7 years 
ago). So if I may ask some questions please:

1) Is it worth my persuing Java? Does it have any real advantages?
There are websites telling of the wonders, but I want to hear a real 
person toute it if it deserves touting.

2) Is anyone out there able to install Java to the point where they can 
run something like "alloy4.jar" or similar and have it working under an 
hour? Two maybe? Does anyone actually want to?

Please note, I am not Java bashing, I am actually looking for some kind 
of honest consensus.  Just wondering if it really is worth my time 
before I continue this trek (into 3rd hour now)...;-)

Thanks...

--
ldb