“jps” is a command-line utility provided as part of the Java Development Kit (JDK), which displays information about Java Virtual Machine (JVM) processes currently running on the system. It stands for “Java Virtual Machine Process Status.” The tool is commonly used by developers, system administrators, and troubleshooting professionals to identify and monitor Java applications and processes. Here’s a more detailed explanation of its features and functionalities:
- Process Identification: “jps” lists Java processes running on the system along with their corresponding process IDs (PIDs) and descriptive information. This information helps users identify and distinguish between different Java applications and instances of the JVM running on the system.
- User-Specific Display: By default, “jps” displays information only about JVM processes associated with the current user. This helps users focus on relevant processes without being overwhelmed by system-wide information. However, users with appropriate permissions can use command-line options to view processes from all users or specific user accounts.
- Process Status Information: In addition to displaying process IDs, “jps” provides additional information about Java processes, such as the main class name or JAR file name associated with each process. This helps users identify the purpose or function of each Java application running on the system.
- Integration with Other Tools: “jps” integrates well with other Java diagnostic and troubleshooting tools, such as “jstat” for monitoring JVM statistics, “jstack” for thread analysis, “jmap” for memory mapping, and “jconsole” or “VisualVM” for visualizing and analyzing JVM metrics. This allows users to perform comprehensive monitoring and analysis of Java applications and JVM instances.
- Scripting and Automation: “jps” can be used in scripts and automated workflows to programmatically monitor and manage Java processes. Users can combine “jps” with other command-line utilities and shell scripts to create custom monitoring solutions or integrate process status checks into system administration tasks.
- Platform Support: “jps” is available on multiple platforms, including Linux, macOS, and Windows, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of development environments and operating systems. This cross-platform support makes “jps” a versatile tool for monitoring Java applications in diverse computing environments.
- Documentation and Resources: “jps” is documented as part of the JDK documentation, providing detailed information on its usage, command-line options, and output format. Additionally, there are numerous tutorials, guides, and online resources available that cover JVM monitoring and troubleshooting techniques using “jps” and other related tools.
jps Command Examples
1. List all JVM processes:
# jps
2. List all JVM processes with only PID:
# jps -q
3. Display the arguments passed to the processes:
# jps -m
4. Display the full package name of all processes:
# jps -l
5. Display the arguments passed to the JVM:
# jps -v
Summary
In summary, “jps” is a useful command-line utility for displaying information about Java processes and JVM instances running on the system. Its user-specific display, process identification, status information, integration with other tools, scripting capabilities, platform support, and comprehensive documentation make it a valuable tool for monitoring and managing Java applications in various environments.