What does LTS mean for Java versions, and which versions are LTS?
Options
- Long-Term Support: Java 8, 11, 17, 21 and 25 (Correct option)
- Latest Test Snapshot: every odd-numbered version
- Language Translation System: Java versions 1 to 5
- Legacy Tools Suite: only Java 8 and older versions
Answer
Long-Term Support: versions that get updates for years; Java 8, 11, 17, 21 and 25 are LTS releases
Why
New Java versions come out regularly, but only some are Long-Term Support releases. Companies usually choose an LTS version for production.
Oracle's roadmap lists LTS releases: 8 (2014), 11 (2018), 17 (2021), 21 (2023) and 25 (September 2025). A new LTS is planned every two years.
When a job says 'Java 17 or 21', it means these LTS versions.
Remember
LTS: 8, 11, 17, 21, 25.