Java

[Carla in Sequim]

I disabled Java a few weeks ago, per DHS. For the past three days, I've gotten notifications to update it. I always select 'no' but I want to resolve this.

I have read that security updates Java recommends are not sufficient so should I just Delete Java as a program? Perhaps I don't appreciate why I have it in the first place.

Thank you,

Carla

[Purveyor]

1. I just removed Java from my machine through the control panal "add or remove programs".

Here is the article that prompted me to do this. What I didn't know was the JavaScript is not Java and it is OK to check the box in your browser setting to run this feature.

Kim Komando: Why you should get rid of Java

http://www.democratandchronicle.com/article/20130204/NEWS01/302040019/Kim-Komando-Java-disable

So far I haven't found any programs or sites the required Java to function.

[ohheckyeah]

2. Ditto....

I removed it completely from all of my computers. I have yet to find a site or program that I needed it.

[RoccoR5955]

5. I wouldn't trust Kim Kommando

as far as I can throw a piano!
For so long she has capitalized on her "expertise," and all she gives is novice information.
The link doesn't really tell us WHY we should get rid of Java, only that it is on so many PCs, and is an easy target. WINDOWS is on MORE PCs, and is an easier target, so why not just get rid of Windows while you're at it. Flash is also on many machines, as is Acrobat Reader. Using her logic, you should just get rid of software that is open to security problems, and be done with it!

No, Kommando is wrong as usual!

You can update your Java, and still disable it within your browser if you need to have it. One of the latest fixes changes the security settings of Java, as to inform you that it wants to run, so that you can use it or not, at your discretion.

You are better served if you have a good anti-virus, a good software firewall, as well as a hardware firewall, and you keep Windows, and all your other software updated.

I say this with 25+ years of supporting nearly 2000 Windows users. It's what I do for a living.
When I see a computer get infected, it's more than likely that a person did not update Windows or other software, or clicked on an attachment in one's e-mail, or a nefarious link. If you are not expecting an attachment or a link, DON'T OPEN IT!


Okay, I'm done ranting now. Just stay on top of things, and ignore all the FUD.

[Phillip McCleod]

6. i 2nd this motion.

also a repair tech. disable it in your browser that's where the security hole is.

DEFINITELY update your java. each update plugs the holes better. windows world might not like java but mac/linux world it's just another language to write programs in and lots of stuff uses it. my word processor uses it (libreoffice).

just disable java in your browsers. keep your antimalware strong. avoid dubious internet crap. wait six months or less. go back to life as normal (in windows users cases viruses up the butt, for the rest of us carefree computing)

[Purveyor]

7. Well I am a novice and removed java without ill effects. I remain... eom

[Carla in Sequim]

3. Thanks to you both.

I will remove the program as well. I think it was installed years ago for an on line game that I never play anymore.

Thanks again!

[Go Vols]

4. I only go to one site

that requires java.Firefox ask me if I want to run java every time I go there,so I think Firefox has it turned off by default now as I never was asked to run it up until a few weeks ago.

[femmocrat]

8. Thanks, Carla.

This post was very helpful.