Windows 7: Why do I need Java?

I was reading a thread in the Security forum.
Someone found a virus or similar in the Java temp files.

One person replied to make sure to have the latest updated version.

So I went looking for my version. I don't have a version.
I don't have Java installed.



I had it on my old HP with XP Pro it was already installed. I kept it updated for five years but never new what it was for.

I still don't!
I've been running Windows 7 for over a month and still have never been prompted I need it.
Java seems a bit useless so far.

Some insight to the usefulness of this software would be appreciated.
Why or why not install?

Mike

Welcome Mike
I will allow Java to answer for me. I think that this page is very imformative
What is Java and why do I need it?
http://java.com/en/java_in_action/

Hello.





You only need it if you need it, if nothing prompts you to install it, no programs/apps or games I wouldn't add it.

richc46

Read the article.

Barefoot

Good idea. When and if I need it then I'll install it.
I wanted to be sure it wasn't an absolute necessity.

Thanks guys.
Mike

amen

Yep, if you needed it, you'd have it. I normally don't bother installing it unless I get prompted to do so.

In simple terms: Jave is an object oriented language that translates into platform independent code. It does, however, require a runtime environment taylored to the platform (e.g. Windows or Linux) that can interpret that code. If you want to run a program that was written in Jave, you will need that runtime environment - else it cannot run.

Java is needed to play games online or run some java applets which provide a particular functionality to a website or page....some desktop programs also make use of java virtual machine to run properly.

It definitely is a security threat if you're not aware...I'll suggest you keep the java on the system but keep it disabled in your browser. You can always enable it in case a need arises....

You may use preferences toolbar for firefox to disable java javascripts...flash on the fly. Its' a great addon.