
The compatibility feature offers essentially the same functionality as a Java EE 5 certified application server. Instead of a genuine Java Virtual Machine (JVM), however, SAP uses a so-called JVM container to execute Java code.
SAP has been offering Java compatibility since 2003.
Sun Microsystems unveiled Java EE 5 earlier this year. The platform is designed for server-based enterprise applications and was formerly known as J2EE.
NetWeaver has not passed Java certification and SAP will be unable to refer to its product as a Java Application Server.
The compatibility feature offers SAP a way to counter Oracle's criticism that its platform is lacking in openness.
Over 30 organisations have a licence for the Java EE technology, allowing them to develop their own application servers. Oracle and BEA are currently offering preview versions of their Java EE 2 application servers.