This error typically occurs during software development, specifically when compiling or building a project. It signifies a mismatch between the project’s configured Java Development Kit (JDK) version (the tools used to create Java programs) and the targeted Java Runtime Environment (JRE) version (the platform on which the compiled code is intended to run). In simpler terms, the code is being built for a Java version (17 in this case) that the development environment cannot locate or access.
Resolving this discrepancy is crucial for successful project compilation and deployment. Using an incompatible JRE version can lead to runtime errors, preventing the application from functioning as expected. Maintaining consistency between the development environment and the targeted runtime environment ensures code compatibility and avoids unexpected behavior. This careful version management becomes increasingly important in larger projects and complex development pipelines. Historically, managing Java versions has posed challenges for developers, contributing to the emergence of robust version management tools and best practices within the Java ecosystem.