Apache NetBeans is a free, open-source integrated development environment with deep roots in Java development, including Java SE and Jakarta EE projects. Originally a Sun Microsystems project later stewarded by Oracle, it was donated to the Apache Software Foundation and became a top-level Apache project, and today also supports PHP, HTML5/JavaScript and other languages through its modular architecture.
NetBeans and the Java Development Ecosystem
NetBeans has long been associated with enterprise Java tooling, with out-of-the-box support for Maven and Gradle projects, a visual Swing GUI builder, and an integrated debugger and profiler. That built-in project structure support is a big part of why it remains a common choice for Java developers who want less setup than assembling an editor from plugins.
Apache NetBeans Features
- Java SE/Jakarta EE support — deep tooling for standard and enterprise Java projects.
- Swing GUI builder — a drag-and-drop visual designer for Java desktop interfaces.
- Maven and Gradle support — built-in handling of common Java build systems.
- Integrated debugger and profiler — step through code and analyze performance without extra plugins.
- Code refactoring and hints — automated suggestions and safe renaming/refactoring tools.
- PHP and HTML5/JavaScript editors — language support beyond Java.
- Version control integration — built-in support for Git, Subversion and Mercurial.
- Modular plugin architecture — extend the IDE with additional modules as needed.
How to Install Apache NetBeans
- Open the official download page using the button on this site.
- Download the installer or ZIP bundle for your operating system.
- Run the installer and follow the setup prompts.
- Make sure a compatible JDK is installed, since NetBeans requires Java to run.
- Open or create a project to start coding.
Is NetBeans really free?
Open Source. Apache NetBeans is free and open source under the Apache License 2.0.
How to download NetBeans safely
Use the request button on this page and we will email you the current link for netbeans.apache.org — the publisher's own website — so you receive the authentic build. We do not host, mirror, patch or repackage this software in any way.
Avoid third-party "download manager" sites offering NetBeans. They commonly wrap the genuine installer in their own bundler, which is how adware and browser hijackers get onto a machine that the user believed was clean.
Alternatives to NetBeans
Other free developer tools software worth comparing before you decide:
Eclipse
A long-standing free, open-source, plugin-extensible Java IDE.
IntelliJ IDEA Community Edition
A free, open-source Java and Kotlin IDE from JetBrains.
Visual Studio Code
A free, extensible source code editor with a large extension marketplace.
Frequently asked questions
Is NetBeans only for Java?
No, while it has strong Java support, NetBeans also supports PHP, HTML5/JavaScript and other languages via bundled and additional modules.
Is NetBeans still maintained?
Yes, it is actively maintained as a top-level Apache Software Foundation project.
What is the difference between NetBeans and IntelliJ IDEA?
Both are Java IDEs, but IntelliJ IDEA (Community Edition) is a separate open-source project from JetBrains with a different feature set and plugin ecosystem.
Does NetBeans support Git?
Yes, it has built-in support for Git as well as Subversion and Mercurial.
Is NetBeans free for commercial use?
Yes, it is free and open source under the Apache License 2.0, which permits commercial use.
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