How To: Disable and/or uninstall Java

By
Adam Jones
-

Java

On mainstream tech news, security stories have a good chance of revolving around yet another security hole found in Java. Malicious attacks utilizing the almost ancient plugin are far too common and despite its many virtues, the risks are rarely worth it. Whether you want to disable Java or remove it from your computer completely, I’ve got you covered.

Disable or Uninstall?

Most people do not need Java on their computers and uninstalling it will have no noticeable effect on how they use their devices. Of course, you should make sure that you do not use any websites or tools that need Java in order to work. If you only use applications that require Java, you should still disable the plugin from your browsers. And in cases where you really need to frequently access a website that requires Java, using an alternate browser just for that site can help you minimize risks associated with it.

Disabling Java

Google’s Chrome is the only browser that no longer supports Java so you do not have to do anything if you are using that browser. As for the rest, I am going to show you how to access the appropriate settings where you will find the option to disable Java entirely or let your browser ask you every time Java wants to run. It is also worth noting that most modern browsers have changed their Java settings so that it does not run automatically. The plug-in seems well on its way out so there is a good chance you will not be seeing it around for much longer.

Firefox

Firefox Java Plugin

  1. Click on the Menu button on the top right side of the browser
  2. Open the Add-ons window.
  3. Select Plugins from the sidebar on the left.
  4. Look for the Java(TM) Platform plugin in Windows or the Java Applet Plug-in in OS X. Change its status by choosing the “Ask to Activate” or “Never Activate” options.

Safari

Safari Plug-ins

  1. Open the Preferences menu and go to Security.
  2. Select “Allow Plug-ins”.
  3. Click on “Manage Website Settings”.
  4. Select Java and choose between the “Ask” and “Block” options.

Internet Explorer

Java IE

  1. Click on Tools and select Internet Options.
  2. Go to the Security tab.
  3. Click on the Custom Level button.
  4. Scroll down to the “Scripting of Java applets” item and make sure the “Disable” or “Prompt” options are enabled.
  5. Click on OK to save the settings and close the window.

Remove Java

Java Uninstall

Java can also be uninstalled entirely form your computer just like any other program. Just go to the “Programs and Features” window of the Control Panel in Windows 7 or in the “Apps and Features” section of the Settings in Windows 8x and Windows 10. Then, find anything with “Java”, “JRE”, and “JDK” and uninstall it from your computer. Note down exactly what you are uninstalling as you can always download them free of charge whenever you need them.

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