Exploring the best platforms to learn the Spring Framework for free in 2023.

Learning to code and build applications can seem daunting as a beginner.

With so many languages, frameworks and tools to choose from, it's hard to know where to start.

If you want to learn an essential skillset for Java web development, Spring Framework is one of the best places to start.

Spring has become the most popular Java framework used by developers due to its modular architecture and capabilities for building secure enterprise applications.

The best part is there are many free online courses, tutorials and resources available to help you master Spring even if you're just starting out.

This article compiles the best free websites, online courses, tutorials and more where you can start learning Spring from scratch.

All the resources you need to go from a complete newbie to building your own Spring applications confidently.

But first, let’s get some background to Spring…

What is Spring Framework?

Spring Framework is an open-source Java platform developed by Rod Johnson in 2003. It provides a comprehensive programming and configuration model to streamline building enterprise applications using Java.

The core features and benefits of Spring include:

• Dependency injection and inversion of control (IoC) - Manages dependencies between objects and configurations
• Aspect-oriented programming (AOP) - Isolates cross-cutting concerns for easier maintenance
• Modular architecture - Compose applications from different modules
• Lightweight - Does not force any specific programming model on developers
• Integration with other frameworks - Works well with Hibernate, Struts, etc.

Overview of Core Spring Modules

The Spring Framework is composed of many modules that provide capabilities for different layers and use cases. The core modules include:

• Spring Core - Provides dependency injection and IoC
• Spring MVC - Model-view-controller module for building web applications
• Spring Data - Simplifies data access and integrates with ORM tools
• Spring AOP - Aspect-oriented programming implementation
• Spring Test - Testing support for Spring components

There are many more modules like Spring Boot, Security, Cloud, WebFlux etc. that enhance Spring's functionality.

Spring vs Other Frameworks

Spring differentiates itself from other major Java web frameworks like:

• Java EE - Spring is more lightweight and modular compared to Java EE which can be complex and monolithic. Easy to integrate Spring with other Java EE technologies.
• Struts - Spring MVC offers more features and flexibility for web development than Struts.

Overall, Spring provides lots of customisation and control for developers compared to opinionated frameworks like Java EE.

The non-invasive architecture and integration capabilities are key advantages of Spring.

Now let’s take a look at the top 7 free platforms to learn Spring for free in 2023:

#1 - The Official Spring Docs

The Official Spring Documentation offers a variety of guides and tutorials tailored for different learning needs and time commitments.

Their Getting Started Guides, which can be completed in 15-30 minutes, provide quick, practical instructions for basic Spring tasks, requiring only a JDK and a text editor.

For broader or more subjective topics, the Topical Guides are ideal, designed for a comprehensive read in an hour or less.

If you’re seeking in-depth exploration of enterprise application development, the Tutorials, taking 2-3 hours, delve deep into real-world application scenarios, equipping learners with practical implementation skills using the latest Spring project releases and recommended techniques.

#2 - Java T Point

Java T Point's Spring Tutorial offers an extensive learning resource for Spring Framework, suitable for both beginners and experienced developers. This tutorial simplifies complex concepts of Spring with easy-to-follow examples, facilitating the development of JavaEE applications.

It covers a wide array of topics including Spring's modules, application setup in different IDEs like Eclipse and MyEclipse, various aspects of dependency injection and Spring AOP, and usage of Spring with ORM tools like Hibernate and JPA.

Additionally, the tutorial delves into Spring MVC, providing insights into form handling, MVC applications, validation techniques, and Spring Security features.

Advanced topics like Spring Remoting, OXM, Java Mail, and integration with other frameworks like Struts2 are also covered, making this a great learning resource for all aspects of Spring development.

#3 - GeeksForGeeks

The Spring tutorial from GeeksForGeeks is designed for both beginners and experienced professionals, covering a wide range of topics related to the Spring Framework.

It starts with the basics of Spring and includes detailed sections on Spring Boot, Spring MVC, and how to use Spring with REST APIs.

The tutorial also covers data management with Spring Data and Spring JDBC, integration with Hibernate, and important concepts like Spring AOP and Spring Security.

This makes it a complete guide for anyone looking to learn or improve their skills in Spring.

#4 - TutorialsPoint

TutorialPoint's Spring tutorial is aimed at Java programmers who want to gain a deep understanding of the Spring framework, its architecture, and practical applications.

Designed to guide learners to an intermediate level, the tutorial requires a solid grasp of Java programming and a basic knowledge of Eclipse IDE, as all examples are demonstrated using Eclipse.

The tutorial covers topics like environment setup, core concepts like IoC Containers, Bean Life Cycle, Dependency Injection, and advanced features such as Bean Post Processors, Annotation and Java-Based Configuration, and AOP with Spring Framework.

It also explores Spring’s JDBC Framework, Transaction Management, Web MVC Framework, and integration with Log4J for logging, providing a well-rounded learning experience for Spring development.

#5 - Simplilearn

Simplilearn offers a free course on the Spring Framework, designed to help you develop a solid understanding and practical skills for Java-based enterprise applications.

This course provides an introductory overview of the Spring framework and goes beyond basics to give you the ability to solve technical problems in Java.

Some key skills taught include configuring Aspect-Oriented Programming (AOP) in Java applications, working with the Spring Model-View-Controller (MVC) and its components, as well as implementing Spring JDBC and managing transactions, making it a great resource if you’re starting out with Spring.

#6 - DigitalOcean

DigitalOcean offers a collection of Spring Core Framework Tutorials, suitable for every learner. These tutorials cover a wide array of topics, including Spring's architecture, Dependency Injection, Aspect-Oriented Programming, and the IoC Container.

They provide practical examples for understanding core and advanced features like Spring Bean life cycles, autowiring, and various annotations.

The content also goes into Spring 5 updates, including Spring WebFlux and Spring Data JPA.

Additionally, it covers Spring Boot, with a focus on REST services and database integration, and Spring MVC, exploring file uploads, form validation, exception handling, and session management.

#7 - NaturalProgrammer

The "Spring Framework Recipes For Real World Application Development" course by NaturalProgrammer is for both beginners and experienced Spring developers, focusing on best practices for building applications and REST web services.

Led by Sanjay Patel, an expert with extensive experience in Spring, the course demystifies complex Spring patterns and practices through up-to-date research.

It covers crucial aspects of Spring MVC, such as handling HTTP requests, responses, and exceptions, and emphasises using Spring securely.

This course effectively addresses the common challenges in Spring development, offering clear and advanced guidance.

Bonus - YouTube Videos

If there’s one place to go for free learning resources it’s YouTube!

And of course, there are many great courses to learn Spring available on YouTube.

Here are a few of them:

• Spring Boot Tutorial | Full Course - by Amigoscode
• Spring Boot Tutorial for Beginners - by Dan Vega
• The ULTIMATE Guide to Spring Boot - by Devtiro

With Spring being one of the most widely used Java frameworks for building enterprise applications, learning it is a must for any aspiring Java developer.

The good news is there are many free online resources to help you learn Spring even if you are just starting out.

This article presents the best free tutorials, courses, and documentation to get you up and running with Spring.

Whether you want to start from the basics and work your way up or dive deep into specific components like Spring Boot or Spring MVC, these materials will be invaluable.

The key is to go through these resources hands-on, following along with the examples and building your own mini-projects. Combine different sources based on your learning style - use official docs for references, video tutorials to see it visually, and courses for structure. Revisit topics multiple times until the concepts click.

Learning a framework like Spring does have a learning curve. But with the right free resources to guide you and perseverance on your part, you can become proficient in Spring before you know it.

The demand for Spring skills is only increasing, so dedicate the time now to build expertise in this future-proof technology.

Get a Spring in your step!

From your fellow ever-growing dev,

Cherlock Code

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