An IDE (Integrated Development Environment) is like a tricked out code editor, that offers a compiling, debugging, version control, and any number of other features. There are Web IDEs and language-specific IDEs (C++ for example) that are more complete in specific areas, but the most established and well-rounded IDE of all is NetBeans.
For large-scale development, a good IDE is an essential project management tool, combining the power of multiple technologies while allowing you to work within a single program interface. I haven't worked on any big and unwieldy projects that would necessarily require an IDE, so I typically use simple code editors to get the job done. Many code editors now encroach on roles of an IDE, and in fact can help just as much in developing the actual code, but they don't employ the advanced debugging, versioning, and collaborative nature of an IDE.
Sun has been making some major moves in the open source field. VirtualBox, OpenOffice.org, and MySQL are all top notch, and lightyears ahead of other free competitors. It just so happens NetBeans falls under the warm, protective blanket of Sun too. Although NetBeans has been around for years, it's encouraging to know that it's here to stay, and with a dedicated team of talented developers forging ahead. NetBeans 6.7 is around the corner, with many updates and enhancements, including integration with Project Kenai and Bugzilla.
Check out NetBeans' impressive feature list for the many technologies and dynamic languages supported.
Download latest version:
NetBeans v6.7.1
NetBeans v6.8 RC
| Homepage: | http://www.netbeans.org/ |
| Supported OS: |    |
| Portable version: |  (But you can try) |
| 64-bit version: | |
| Active project: |  |
| No strings attached **: | |
** No spyware, ads, nags, registration reminders, etc.
Other IDE freeware to keep an eye on:
- Aptana Studio - web-focused (i.e. no C/C++) but nice
- Eclipse
- MonoDevelop
