Date Created: Tue 27-Nov-2007

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    What are Enterprise Archive (EAR) files?

    An Enterprise Archive file represents a J2EE application that can be deployed in a WebSphere application server. EAR files are standard Java archive files and have the file extension .ear. An EAR file can consist of the following:

    • One or more Web modules
    • One or more EJB modules
    • One or more application client modules
    • Additional JAR files required by the application
    • Any combination of the above

    The modules that make up the EAR file are themselves packaged in archive files specific to their types--for example, a Web module contains Web archive files and an EJB module contains Java archive files. EAR files also contain a deployment descriptor (an XML file) that describes the contents of the application and contains instructions for the entire application, such as security settings to be used in the run-time environment.

    When an EJB module or Web module is installed as a stand-alone application, it is automatically wrapped in an Enterprise Archive (EAR) file.


Middleware Mentor - Steven Charles Robinson

About Me

Steve Robinson has been working in IT for over 15 years and has provided solutions for many large-enterprise corporate companies across the world. Steve specialises in Java and Middleware consulting. Steve comes from both an administration and development background.

Before moving to JEE, Steve was an accomplished developer and consultant for both IBM Lotus Notes and Microsoft .NET Technologies.

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IBM WebSphere Application Server 8.0 Administration Guide

IBM WebSphere Application Server 8.0 Administration Guide

WebSphere Application Server 7.0 Administration Guide

WebSphere Application Server 7.0 Administration Guide

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