> Java 8 is a known variable You might think that, but that's not the case. At least as far as OpenJDK goes, some new features, including huge ones (like JFR)

> Java 8 is a known variable You might think that, but that's not the case. At least as far as OpenJDK goes, some new features, including huge ones (like JFR) have been backported to it. I believe that the NPE message is being considered for backport, too. > It's a solid base for you to build your software on top. It's old tech, that -- unless you actually buy paid support -- is only partially maintained through backports from mainline only. If you're not buying support, it's a less solid, more risky base than the current version.