Unrecognized option: –add-opens=java.base/java.lang=ALL-UNNAMED Error: Could not create the Java Virtual Machine

The error message “Unrecognized option: –add-opens=java.base/java.lang=ALL-UNNAMED Error: Could not create the Java Virtual Machine” typically occurs when trying to run a Java application or start a Java Virtual Machine (JVM), and it’s related to an unrecognized command-line option. Here’s an analysis of the error and a solution from the perspective of an individual developer:

Error Explanation:

• The error message suggests that there is an unrecognized JVM option specified in the command line.
• Specifically, it mentions the option “–add-opens=java.base/java.lang=ALL-UNNAMED” as unrecognized.
• This option is typically used to open packages in the Java base module to allow reflective access for certain operations.

Solution:
To resolve this issue as an individual developer, follow these steps:

1. Check Command Line Arguments:

• Review the command or script you’re using to start the Java application or JVM. Ensure that there are no typographical errors in the command-line options and that the option “–add-opens=java.base/java.lang=ALL-UNNAMED” is correctly formatted.

1. Correct the Option Format:

• The option should use double hyphens (--) instead of en dashes (–). Replace any en dashes with double hyphens in your command.

   # Incorrect format (en dash):
   java –add-opens=java.base/java.lang=ALL-UNNAMED -jar your-application.jar

   # Correct format (double hyphens):
   java --add-opens=java.base/java.lang=ALL-UNNAMED -jar your-application.jar

3. Update Java Version:

• Ensure that you are using a Java version that supports the “–add-opens” option. This option is available in Java 9 and later versions. If you’re using an older version of Java, consider upgrading to a compatible version.

3. Review Dependencies:

• If you’re running an application that depends on external libraries or frameworks, ensure that these dependencies are also compatible with the Java version you’re using. Incompatibilities can sometimes lead to unrecognized options or errors during JVM startup.

3. Check Environment Variables:

• Verify that your JAVA_HOME environment variable is correctly set to point to the Java installation directory of the desired Java version.

3. Run a Simple Java Program:

• To isolate the issue, you can try running a simple Java program with just the problematic option to see if the issue persists. For example:

   java --add-opens=java.base/java.lang=ALL-UNNAMED -version

This should display the Java version information with the specified option.

7. Update JVM Options:

• If the problematic option is not essential for your application, consider removing it from the command line. If it is necessary, ensure that it’s used correctly and in the right context within your application.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the “Unrecognized option: –add-opens=java.base/java.lang=ALL-UNNAMED Error: Could not create the Java Virtual Machine” error and successfully run your Java application or JVM.