Difference between java.exe and javaw.exe

Both commands (java.exe and javaw.exe) are identical. The only difference is that java.exe is associated with a console (Command Prompt), where as javaw.exe is not associated. When java.exe command is invoked, a 'Command Prompt' window is opened automatically. By default, Standard Output and Standard Error streams are directed to the console window. Since javaw.exe is not associated with any console, the text in Standard Output and Standard Error streams is not visible. However, these streams can be directed to a file by using the methods System.setOut(…) and System.setErr(…).