# Java Agent Development Framework

> software framework

**Wikidata**: [Q1684174](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1684174)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Java_Agent_Development_Framework)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/java-agent-development-framework

## Summary
The Java Agent Development Framework (JADE) is a software framework designed for the development of multi-agent systems. It is written in Java and runs on the Java Platform, Standard Edition. Distributed under the GNU Lesser General Public License, it is also known by the aliases JADE and WADE.

## Key Facts
- **Full Name:** Java Agent Development Framework (JADE).
- **Category:** Software framework, Free software.
- **Primary Use:** Development of multi-agent systems.
- **Programming Language:** Java.
- **Platform:** Java Platform, Standard Edition.
- **License:** GNU Lesser General Public License.
- **Latest Stable Version:** 4.6.0 (released December 19, 2022).
- **Aliases:** JADE, WADE.
- **System Package:** Available as the Gentoo package `dev-java/jade`.

## FAQs
### Q: What is the primary purpose of the Java Agent Development Framework?
A: JADE is a software framework used to create multi-agent systems. It provides the necessary infrastructure and tools for developers to build and deploy software agents that can communicate and interact.

### Q: What programming language is used for JADE?
A: The framework is implemented in the Java programming language and operates on the Java Platform, Standard Edition.

### Q: What is the most recent version of JADE?
A: The current stable version is 4.6.0, which was released on December 19, 2022, alongside WADE 3.8.0.

### Q: Is JADE free to use?
A: Yes, JADE is free software released under the GNU Lesser General Public License.

## Why It Matters
The Java Agent Development Framework matters because it simplifies the complex task of building distributed multi-agent systems. By providing a ready-made middleware compliant with standard agent specifications, it allows developers to focus on the logic of their agents rather than the underlying communication and infrastructure code. Its foundation in Java ensures platform independence and broad compatibility across different operating systems. The framework supports the development of intelligent, autonomous components that can work collaboratively, which is essential in fields ranging from simulation to distributed AI. Its continued maintenance, evidenced by the 4.6.0 release in late 2022, highlights its ongoing relevance in the software development landscape.

## Notable For
- **Specialized Architecture:** Distinct from general-purpose frameworks due to its specific focus on multi-agent system development.
- **Open Source Licensing:** Accessible for both academic and commercial use under the GNU Lesser General Public License.
- **Active Development:** Distinguishes itself by maintaining modern support, with stable releases occurring as recently as December 2022.
- **Java Ecosystem Integration:** Fully integrated with Java Platform, Standard Edition, leveraging the language's object-oriented features for agent creation.

## Body
### Technical Specifications
JADE is a software framework categorized as free software. It is constructed using the Java programming language and requires the Java Platform, Standard Edition to function. The framework is designed to facilitate the creation of agent-based applications, where "agents" are autonomous software entities that interact within an environment.

### Version History
The framework is actively maintained. The stable version **4.6.0** was officially released on **December 19, 2022**. This release occurred simultaneously with version 3.8.0 of WADE, an alias or related component of the framework.

### Licensing and Distribution
JADE is distributed under the **GNU Lesser General Public License**. This licensing model permits the software to be freely used, modified, and distributed in both open-source and proprietary commercial applications, provided the terms of the LGPL are met. It is also available in the Gentoo Linux repository under the package name `dev-java/jade`.

### Digital Presence
The project maintains an active web presence. The preferred official website is `https://jade.tilab.com/`, with documentation and additional resources available at `https://jade-project.gitlab.io/`. The framework has significant documentation coverage, with Wikipedia articles available in 11 languages including English, German, Spanish, and Russian.

## References

1. [JADE 4.6.0 and WADE 3.8.0 have been released. Posted on 19/12/2022. 2022](https://jade.tilab.com/jade-4-6-0-and-wade-3-8-0-have-been-released/)
2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013