This error message typically appears during software development, particularly in Java-based projects. It signifies a mismatch between the Java Development Kit (JDK) version used to compile the code and the Java Runtime Environment (JRE) or Java Virtual Machine (JVM) version targeted for execution. For instance, compiling code using JDK 17 and then attempting to run it on a JRE 11 environment will likely produce this error. The numerical component, “11” in this case, indicates the specific Java version incompatibility.
Ensuring compatibility between the development and runtime environments is crucial for predictable and reliable software execution. Addressing such mismatches prevents unexpected behavior, crashes, and security vulnerabilities. Historically, changes between major Java versions sometimes introduce breaking changes, making compatibility checks a necessary step in the software development lifecycle. Correctly configuring the target Java version allows developers to leverage specific features and optimizations while maintaining compatibility with the intended deployment environment. This contributes to robust, performant, and secure applications.