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dalem29

2 Intern

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2.2K Posts

4967

March 25th, 2007 20:00

Does Java have anything to do with my computers security?...

Does Java have anything to do with my computers security? I don't have the latest version. And will I need to delete the old version or will the program do that automatically? Thanks...Dale

zbestwun2001

3 Apprentice

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8.8K Posts

March 25th, 2007 20:00

Yep it has a lot to do with your system being vulnerable.

Here are some instructions:

  • Download the latest version of Java Runtime Environment (JRE) 6.
  • Scroll down to where it says "The J2SE Runtime Environment (JRE) allows end-users to run Java applications".
  • Click the "Download" button to the right.
  • Check the box that says: "Accept License Agreement".
  • The page will refresh.
  • Click on the link to download Windows Offline Installation with or without Multi-language and save to your desktop.
  • Close any programs you may have running - especially your web browser.
  • Go to Start > Control Panel double-click on Add/Remove programs and remove all older versions of Java.
  • Check any item with Java Runtime Environment (JRE or J2SE) in the name.
  • Click the Remove or Change/Remove button.
  • Repeat as many times as necessary to remove each Java versions.
  • Reboot your computer once all Java components are removed.
  • Then from your desktop double-click on jre-6-windows-i586.exe to install the newest version.

Official JAVA Installation Instructions if needed.


Steve

ky331

3 Apprentice

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15.5K Posts

March 25th, 2007 21:00

Note:  I was preparing this text, accidentally erased it, and then discovered that Steve had posted details before I could retype it all...  but since I did retype it, here goes..
 
In order to fully answer your question, I need to rephrase it as two+ others:
 
1) MUST I have java present on my computer (in order for the PC to run and/or be secure)?
Answer:   No, Java is not a requirement in order for your PC to run.   But without it, if you visit websites that use java, you will not be able to view the java-based displays.   If you don't care about this limitation, then you can live without java --- and there are people who indeed do so.
 
2)  IF I have java present on my computer, can it impact my system's security?
Answer:  YES!  Unfortunately, hackers have been known to take advantage of "holes" in java [just like they exploit "holes" in Internet Explorer, and in Windows itself].   In particular, there is reason to believe that a "hole" in Java version 1.4.2_03 has been exploited by WinFixer.   As such,   if  you have java installed, it's important to keep it up to date with the latest version.   I prefer downloading the larger OFFLINE version, as it can be saved to your hard drive for later installation [at the time of your choice].  After completing the download, be sure to UNinstall   ALL  older versions of Java --- this is NOT done automatically upon installation of the new version --- and then install the new version.
 
3) So should I have java installed??   While not required, I think the huge number of legitimate websites that use Java strongly urge one to consider installing it, in order to experience the full richness of the media display.   So I personally choose to install it, on all my machines.
 
Note:   The same questions/decisions likewise apply to Adobe's FlashPlayer and Shockwave Player.
 
EDIT/Clarification:   While Java 1.4.2_03 might be one "hole" allegedly exploited by WinFixer [dictating that people update from this particular version]... be advised that updating java does not stop WinFixer from entering your computer by exploiting OTHER weaknesses in your system [or via bad surfing habits]. 


Message Edited by ky331 on 03-25-2007 07:57 PM

ky331

3 Apprentice

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15.5K Posts

March 29th, 2007 17:00

JRE 6 update 1 now available
 

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