How does Java achieve portability?

Java achieves portability primarily through the use of the Java Virtual Machine (JVM). When Java source code is compiled, it transforms into bytecode, which is a platform-independent intermediate representation. This bytecode can be executed on any machine that has a compatible JVM.

The JVM acts as an interpreter between the Java program and the underlying hardware, allowing it to run on various operating systems and hardware architectures without needing modifications to the Java code itself. This is a cornerstone of Java's "write once, run anywhere" philosophy, providing developers with the flexibility to deploy applications across different environments efficiently.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of how Java achieves portability. Cloud storage, for instance, does not inherently relate to the ability of Java programs to run on different platforms. Similarly, the assertion that Java runs on all types of hardware is too broad without acknowledging the role of the JVM in facilitating this compatibility. Lastly, while Java programs can be integrated with other programming languages, this does not directly contribute to their inherent portability.