You have probably seen Java’s steaming coffee cup logo in your Computer’s taskbar at some point – with a prompt to install the latest version. 

Whether I am with clients for training, or to troubleshoot software issues, one question that often comes up is what Java is and whether they actually need it and should install the updates. 

What exactly is Java?

The programming language Java was first released by Sun Microsystems in 1995 and later purchased by Oracle. Its purpose is to help applications (i.e. OpenOffice) run on computers, regardless of what version of Windows (or even Mac OS and other operating systems) you are running. According to Oracle’s website:

 “Java Powers Our Digital World

Java is at the heart of our digital lifestyle. It’s the platform for launching careers, exploring human-to-digital interfaces, architecting the world’s best applications, and unlocking innovation everywhere—from garages to global organizations.”

And best of all, you can download it for free here.

So, Java is a good thing – right?

Well…

The Downside to Java

Java is used in many applications, so naturally it becomes a target by cyber criminals making it open to security risks and vulnerabilities.

However, Oracle is keen to patch any security holes, which is why it is so important to install the updates when prompted if you have Java installed on your system.

As Java usually gets installed with the installation of an application (i.e. OpenOffice), it is also important to uninstall older versions of Java:

https://www.java.com/en/download/faq/remove_olderversions.xml

If you are sure that none of the applications you have installed on your computer use Java, you may want to consider uninstalling Java altogether:

https://www.java.com/en/download/help/uninstall_java.xml

And Finally…

Get in touch if you want any advice, or prefer for us to apply all the latest updates on your computer (not just Java, but Adobe, Office and Windows too) so you can be rest assured that you are protected against all the latest security threats.

Have PC Harmony,
so you can concentrate on the more important things in life…