如何在可执行的Java应用程序安装过程中自动设置类路径？

Question

I am writing down an example of what I was trying to do. But this is just one example, I am sure there would be many. So I want a generalised answer for this.

I was trying to make a java desktop application which reads the word documents. I realized I need some Apache libraries/APIs that would help me do it. So I downloaded the library.

But now I need to set the classpath of the files from the library.

I am a developer and I can do it, but imagine giving such instructions of setting a classpath to a complete non-developer user.

I was wondering if when I am over with the making of this java application, I would make it executable (exe) application and when someone installs it, the classpaths are set automatically during the installation and the apache library files are automatically extracted.

How can I do it? Can someone explain me in detail - step-by-step?

Answer 1

Please consider using some development IDE, like (free) eclipse for instance. Then crate new folder (clled lib for example) in your project, copy the library into it, then click on your library by the right button and select "add to build path"

Answer 2

As already mentioned - best way to do it is to use Manifest file in your jar. Official documentation: https://docs.oracle.com/javase/tutorial/deployment/jar/downman.html