Complete Guide on How to Activate and Secure Java on Different Platforms

Introduction: The Importance of Java Security

Java Runtime Environment (JRE) is a prime target for hackers, who exploit its security vulnerabilities to launch attacks on user computers. This has led many system administrators to disable the Java Runtime Environment from running in web browsers, leaving it up to the user to activate it if necessary. If you've ever had trouble running Java-based web applications or content, this guide offers simple steps to enable Java on supported browsers, both Windows and macOS. Let's begin!

How to Enable Java on Windows

To get started, open the web browser of your choice on your Windows PC and go to the official Java Runtime Environment website. Click on “Accept all cookies” and then on “Free Java download”. Next, click on “Accept and start the free download”.

Once the download is complete, double-click the .exe file to launch it. Follow the instructions by clicking on “Yes”, “Install” and finally “OK”.

The program will automatically download the necessary components from the Internet, starting the installation process. Wait a few seconds for it to complete, and click “Close” to finish.

Enable Java on Internet Explorer

With Java installed, it's time to enable it on Internet Explorer.

First, go to Control Panel by clicking on the Start button. Type “Java” in the search box and click on the most relevant result. In the new window that appears, select the Security tab and make sure “Enable Java content for browsers and Web Start applications” is checked. If it is not selected, add a checkmark and click “Apply” and then “OK”.

Now open Internet Explorer and click “Enable” when prompted, ensuring that the Java(tm) Plug-In SSV Helper is ready for use.

If you don't receive the prompt or are still unable to use Java, manually update your settings. Click the gear icon in the top right corner, select “Internet Options,” go to the “Security” tab and click “Custom Level.” Scroll down until you find the option for “Java Applet Script,” select “Enable,” and click “OK” to save your settings.

How to Enable Java Runtime Environment on macOS

To activate it on macOS, open the browser you usually use, navigate to the Java site and click on "Accept all cookies", followed by "Free Java download". Finally, click on “Accept and start the free download”.

After downloading, double-click the .dmg file. Follow the instructions by clicking on “Open”, entering the password for your macOS user account, and clicking on “OK”. In the new window, click on “Install”, “OK” and then “Close”.

Enable Java on Safari

Once Java is installed, enabling it on Safari is a simple process.

Open Safari, go to “Preferences” and click on the “Security” tab. Here, look for the “Enable Java” or “Enable JavaScript” option and make sure it is checked. If it is not selected, add a checkmark and then click “Apply” and “OK”.