What is a ClassLoader

A ClassLoader is a part of the Java Runtime Environment that is responsible for loading classes into memory at runtime. It allows Java applications to dynamically discover, load, and link classes as needed. This flexibility is crucial for modularity, enabling the implementation of features such as dynamic loading of libraries, plugin architectures, and the execution of user-defined code.

In Java, there are several built-in ClassLoaders, such as the Bootstrap ClassLoader, Extension ClassLoader, and Application ClassLoader. Developers can also create custom ClassLoaders for specific needs, such as loading classes from unusual sources or modifying the class-loading process.

Here's a simple example of how a custom ClassLoader can be implemented:

class MyClassLoader extends ClassLoader { @Override protected Class> findClass(String name) throws ClassNotFoundException { // Load class data from a specific location byte[] classData = ...; // code to read class data return defineClass(name, classData, 0, classData.length); } }

ClassLoader Java ClassLoader Dynamic Class Loading Custom ClassLoader Java Runtime Environment

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