A Jini device configures itself for the network it finds itself attached to, posts its availability and its capabilities on a "bulletin board", and provides to other Jini devices the software needed to use those capabilities.

Lets say your new Jini device is a color laser printer. You plug it in and turn it on. It immediately configures to the network and finds the "bulletin board" server in your area. It posts its availability and capabilities on the board and waits for work. One of your workstations needs to print a color document. It checks the bulletin board for a suitable color printer and asks the printer for a suitable printer driver. Upon receiving the driver from the printer, it sends the document to the printer.

Jini is designed to control devices as diverse as digital cameras, computers lights, fans and air conditioners - all on the same network.