JAR (Java Archive) files are a packaging format in Java that bundles multiple files—such as classes, libraries, metadata, and resources—into a single archive file for easier distribution and deployment. JAR files are based on the ZIP file format, enabling compression to reduce file size. They can be executed if they contain a manifest file with an entry point (main class). JAR files help organize and manage Java applications, libraries, or components efficiently, allowing developers to distribute programs or libraries as a single, compact unit, simplifying both sharing and deployment across different systems.
