Reglue

Reglue is a software library that allows Java applications to dynamically re-link or "re-glue" classes at runtime. It is designed to address scenarios where applications need to load new versions of classes or plugins without restarting the entire application. This can be particularly useful in long-running systems or in environments where frequent updates are required.

The core functionality of Reglue involves intercepting class loading requests and providing mechanisms to substitute existing classes with newly loaded ones. This process typically involves understanding the classloader hierarchy and the dependencies between classes. Reglue aims to simplify this complex task by offering a consistent API for managing class replacements.

Key features of Reglue often include support for different class loading strategies, such as replacing all instances of a class or selectively replacing instances based on certain criteria. It may also provide tools for managing the lifecycle of re-glued classes, including their initialization and eventual deactivation. The library is designed to be integrated into existing Java applications and aims to minimize the impact on application performance and stability during the re-gluing process. While not a mainstream library, Reglue has found use in specific niches where dynamic class updates are a critical requirement.