Java is a computing platform and programming language that was first made available by Sun Microsystems in 1995. It has evolved from humble beginnings to power a large share of today’s digital world, by providing the reliable platform upon which many services and applications are built. New, innovative products and digital services designed for the future continue to rely on Java, as well.
While most modern Java applications combine the Java runtime and application together, there are still many applications and even some websites that will not function unless you have a desktop Java installed. This website, Java.com, is for customers who may still require Java for their desktop applications, particularly Java 8-specific applications. Developers as well as users that would like to learn Java programming should visit the dev.java website instead and business users should visit oracle.com/java for more information.
Is Java free to download?
Yes, Java is free to download for personal use.
Java is also free for development: developers can find all the development kits and other useful tools at https://www.oracle.com/javadownload/.
Why should I upgrade to the latest Java patch each quarter when prompted?
The latest Java patches contain important enhancements to improve performance, stability and security of the Java applications that run on your machine. Installing these updates will ensure that your Java applications continue to run with the most up-to-date version.
MORE TECHNICAL INFORMATION
What will I get when I download Java software from java.com?
The Java Runtime Environment (JRE) version 8 is what you get when you download Java software from java.com.
The JRE consists of the Java Virtual Machine (JVM), Java platform core classes, and supporting Java platform libraries. The JRE is the runtime portion of Java software, which is all you need to run Java WebStart applications from a supported web browser. It doesn’t come with development tools, though – these tools are part of the Java Development Kit (JDK).
What software is Java Plug-in? The Java Plug-in software is a component of the Java Runtime Environment (JRE). The Java Runtime Environment (JRE) makes it possible for some browsers to launch Java-based applications. The Java Plug-in software is not a standalone program and cannot be installed separately
I've heard the terms JVM and Java Virtual Machine. Is this Java software?
The Java Virtual Machine is only one part of Java software that is involved in running an application. The Java Virtual Machine, which is a component of the JRE and is included in your Java software download, aids in the execution of Java applications.
