Java Card Technology

Java Card Technology

Java Card enables secure elements, such as smart cards and other tamper-resistant security chips, to host applications which employ Java technology. Java Card offers a secure and interoperable execution platform that can store and update multiple applications on a single resource-constrained device, while retaining the highest certification levels and compatibility with standards.

Key Resources

About Java Card

The Java Card platform is at its core a very minimal subset of Java, enriched with unique features catering to the needs of secure elements implementers and developers, specifically:

  • Interoperable:  Applets developed with Java Card technology will run on any Java Card technology-enabled product, independently of the software vendor and underlying hardware. Java Card is available on a wide range of silicon form factors : smart cards, embedded chips, secure enclaves within CPUs and MCUs, removable SIMs... Applications can be reused across those form factors, enabling customers to maximize their security / cost ratio, and supporting seamless migration if security requirements evolve. 
  • Secure: Java Card technology relies on the inherent security of the Java programming language to provide a secure execution environment. An open design process, proven industry deployments and high-level security evaluations guarantee that the Java Card platform is the most capable and secure technology available today. Java Card also supports the latest security standards and is regularly updated with state of the art cryptography algorithms, modes and protocols.  
  • Multi-Application multi-tenant: Java Card technology enables multiple applications from multiple vendors to coexist securely on a single secure element. For example, several payment schemes can be included in the same chip, or a SIM application can be loaded alongside device security services in an embedded Secure Element.
  • Extensible and Updatable : new services are developed using standard-based Java tools, and can be created and deployed at any time during the life of a Java Card product. Remote management and upgrade of applications allows service providers to constantly adapt to security threats. Applets are updatable in the field, ensuring always-current device security to end-users.  
  • Compatible with standards: The Java Card API is compatible with international standards for secure elements such as ISO 7816 or mobile communication standards issued by ETSI/3GPP. Major industry-specific standards such as EMVCo, GlobalPlatform refer to it.

For More Information : Download the Download the Java Card Data Sheet [PDF]