How to Install Java Updates

Java is normally set up to automatically download and install its own updates. However, if you have turned off automatic updates, you will need to manually download and install important updates. The updates released by Java's creator, Sun Microsystems, are often security updates and not updating can put your computer at risk. To get the updates, you need to visit the Java website.

Instructions

1. Go to the Java download center (see Resources).

2. Click on "Do I Have Java?" found under the large "Free Java Download" button. This will automatically check what version of Java you currently have on your computer and whether there are updates available. Continue if it tells you that you do not have the most recent version.

3. Click the "Download Java Now" button. Click the "Free Java Download" button at the next page. This will automatically start the download. Click "Save File" at the pop-up.

4. Run the .exe file that was downloaded by double clicking on it. This will start the Java installer.

5. Click "Install" in the installer and then choose whether to install the Yahoo! tool bar with Java and then the "Next" button. Java will then install. Click the "Close" button when the installation is complete.

Tips & Warnings

• Remove old versions of Java through the add/remove programs section of the control panel if you have no programs that need them. Update Java regularly to ensure that your system is as secure as possible.

References

• Java Download Center