Investigating JVM Crashes Without Core Dumps in WebLogic Server

A Java Virtual Machine (JVM) crash in WebLogic Server can be a nightmare for administrators, especially when no core dump is generated for analysis. Without a core dump, identifying the root cause of the crash becomes challenging, requiring advanced debugging techniques.

To help you troubleshoot JVM crashes effectively, we’ve prepared a detailed training guide that covers possible causes, diagnostic tools, and solutions.

📥 Download the Investigating JVM Crashing Without Core Dump Guide

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Common Causes of JVM Crashes in WebLogic

1️⃣ Native Memory Leaks

• Improper memory allocation by native libraries (JNI issues)
• Memory exhaustion due to large heap or excessive threads

2️⃣ JVM Bugs or Incompatibilities

• Running an outdated or buggy JVM version
• Compatibility issues with OS or third-party libraries

3️⃣ Excessive Garbage Collection (GC) Activity

• Frequent full GC leading to JVM instability
• Incorrect GC tuning parameters

4️⃣ System-Level Issues

• Kernel-level conflicts or OS patches affecting Java processes
• Insufficient system resources (CPU, RAM, disk space)

5️⃣ Misconfigured Core Dump Settings

• Core dumps disabled at the OS level
• File system permissions preventing core dump creation

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How to Investigate JVM Crashes Without a Core Dump

🔹 Check JVM Logs (hs_err_pid.log)

• Look for error files in the WebLogic domain logs or under the JVM process directory.
• Identify crash signatures and affected libraries.

🔹 Enable Core Dump Generation

• Verify OS-level settings using: ulimit -c
• Increase limits if core dumps are disabled: ulimit -c unlimited

🔹 Analyze WebLogic Server Logs

• Examine server.log and stdout logs for unusual behavior before the crash.

🔹 Use JVM Debugging Tools

• Enable JVM crash dump options: -XX:+HeapDumpOnOutOfMemoryError -XX:ErrorFile=/path/to/error.log
• Use JConsole, JVisualVM, or JFR (Java Flight Recorder) for real-time monitoring.

🔹 Check OS & Hardware Logs

• Look for system errors in /var/log/messages (Linux) or Event Viewer (Windows).
• Monitor CPU and memory usage to detect resource exhaustion.

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Best Practices to Prevent JVM Crashes

✔ Use a Stable & Supported JVM Version

• Regularly update to the latest Java SE patches.

✔ Optimize JVM Heap & GC Settings

• Fine-tune -Xms, -Xmx, and GC parameters for your workload.

✔ Monitor & Limit Thread Usage

• Avoid excessive thread creation using WebLogic Work Managers.

✔ Enable Proper Logging & Alerts

• Configure JVM monitoring tools to capture early warning signs.

✔ Test Application Code for Native Memory Leaks

• Use tools like jmap, jstack, and Native Memory Tracking (NMT).

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Download the Full Guide

For detailed troubleshooting steps, JVM tuning tips, and real-world debugging scenarios, download the full training guide here:

📥 Investigating JVM Crashing Without Core Dump Guide

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Final Thoughts

JVM crashes without core dumps can be tricky to debug, but with the right diagnostic approach and tools, you can identify and fix the underlying causes.

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