How to Integrate External Libraries into Artifact JARs in IntelliJ IDEA?

Integrating External Libraries into Artifact Jars with IntelliJ IDEA

When preparing an artifact jar for deployment, it's crucial to retain access to necessary external libraries. This ensures that your application can execute seamlessly. In IntelliJ IDEA, integrating external libraries into your project requires a precise approach.

Steps for Including External Libraries

To add an external library and ensure its inclusion in your artifact jar:

1. Import the Library: Go to "Project Structure" and add the external JAR to the "Libraries" section.
2. Configure Module Dependencies: Select the module that uses the library in the "Modules" list, navigate to the "Dependencies" tab, and add the library as a dependency.
3. Verify Manifest Entries: Check that the external library's JAR path is specified in the "Manifest" tab of the "Artifacts" configuration.

Two Options for Artifact Packaging

Once configured, you have two options for packaging your artifact:

1. Single Executable JAR: Extract the dependency's JAR file into the artifact jar, resulting in a self-contained application with its dependencies bundled within.
2. Linked JARs: Create a Manifest file that specifies the dependencies and copy the dependent JAR files alongside the main application JAR. This approach allows for easier updates and management of the JARs.

Sample Project Demonstration

To illustrate both approaches, download the sample project "HelloWithDependencies.zip." Built artifacts are generated in the "outsingle" and "outlinked" directories. The "Manifest.MF" file in the "linked" directory specifies the dependency, and the "copyFiles" plugin in the Maven POM copies the linked JARs to the output directory.

By following these steps, you can successfully add external libraries to your artifact jar, ensuring that your application remains fully functional during deployment.

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