Windows 7: Confusing info

Are Adobe Flash, Java, & Microsoft Silverlight really needed? I've read conflicting posts about all of them.

Thanks a bunch,
grits

I uninstalled Java over a year ago when they started having a lot of security problems. Haven't missed it at all. Silverlight came pre-installed on one of my computers. I went about 6 months and realized I never used it. I uninstalled it as well and that was about 2 years ago.

Adobe Flash is a different story. There are many websites that require Flash in order to view their video content (news sites, YouTube, etc.) So I have that installed on all my machines. And I make it a priority to check for updates on a regular basis because Adobe Flash has also had its share of security issues.

My suggestion is to keep Flash but ditch Java and Silverlight. If you come across a site that needs Java or Silverlight it will only take a few minutes to visit the download site and install. If it turns out you use Java or Silverlight on a regular basis then you might reconsider and leave them installed permanently.

Thank you, evidently I haven't needed Java, it's not listed in Programs & Features. Silverlight came pre-installed here also. If memory serves me right, the only time it's popped up is on Microsoft sites so will go ahead & uninstall. I did go to Adobe site to update Flash since I'd clicked the 'Remind me later' button yesterday. By the way, it's listed in Programs & Features as Adobe Flash Player 11 Active X. Is that the only way it should be listed?

Thanks again,
grits

That's how it should be listed. In my screenshot you'll notice that I also have Adobe Flash Player 11 Plugin. That's because I'm using the Opera browser. If you're using only Internet Explorer you get the Active X. If you use an additional browser you get an additional plugin for that browser.



Sorry for the delayed reply. I was out of town for the day.

Thanks, no problem, we can't sit in front of these machines 24/7

You've been a big help.

Another old one I'm reviving. I just checked my Programs list & have both listed but only have IE browser. I tried Firefox awhile back but didn't like it so uninstalled it. Or should say "thought" I did, have found reference in different places in machine to several programs I 'uninstalled'. Anyway, it's safe then to uninstall plugin since I just have the one browser?
Thanks,
grits