What are Java command line options to set to allow JVM to be remotely debugged ?

Question

I know there's some JAVA_OPTS to set to remotely debug a Java program.

What are them and what does they mean ?

Answer 1

I have this article bookmarked on setting this up with Eclipse.

Basically run it with:

-Xdebug -Xrunjdwp:transport=dt_socket,server=y,suspend=n,address=1044

Answer 2

Here's some more gory details on what the options are:

http://java.sun.com/javase/6/docs/technotes/guides/jpda/conninv.html

Answer 3

Ok, by the way, -Xdebug and -Xrunjdwp arguments are to use for Java prior 5.0.

For Java 5.0 and after, it's preferable to use the -agentlib:jdwp single option.

So to summarize :

• before Java 5.0, use -Xdebug and -Xrunjdwp arguments
• from Java 5.0, use agentlib:jdwp

Options on -Xrunjdwp or agentlib:jdwp arguments are :

• transport=dt_socket : means the way used to connect to JVM (socket is a good choice, it can be used to debug a distant computer)
• address=8000 : TCP/IP port exposed, to connect from the debugger,
• suspend=y : if 'y', tell the JVM to wait until debugger is attached to begin execution, otherwise (if 'n'), starts execution right away.