What is it?
Java is a computer programming language that is intended to let application developers write a code that can be used on multiple devices. It was first released in 1995 by Sun Microsystems, and is now one of the most popular programming languages in use with over 9 million developers. Java has been used to deploy pop-ups, and as such many users choose to disable it on their browser. When Java is not enabled, however, you may experience difficulty using certain applications or with viewing websites.
How to
If you are using windows, select the “Start” button and then “Control Panel”. In the search box in the upper right corner, type “Java Control Panel”. The Java symbol should come up. Select it to gain access to the Java Control Panel, and click the tab labelled “Security”. Click the box beside “Enable Java content in the browser”, click “Apply”, and then “OK”. Reload your internet browser to allow your new Java settings to take effect. If you are using a Mac, start by selecting the “Apple” icon, and then click on “System Preferences”. Select “Java” to gain access to the Java Control Panel, select the “Security” tab, and then place a checkmark beside “Enable Java content in the browser”. If you wish to enable Java in Google Chrome, type “about:plugins” into the address bar. Click on the “Enable” link under the Java section. In Firefox, go to “Tools” and then “Add-ons”. Click on “Plugins”, and choose the “Enable” option next to Java (TM) Platform. In Safari, click on “Safari” in your browser and go to “Preferences”. Click on the “Security” tab and select the “Enable Java” option.
Why do it?
If you come across a website that is embedded with a Java app, and if you do not have Java enabled, you won’t be able to see the program that Java is trying to run. Java is also very handy for programmers. It allows them to write a program once, which can be used on all devices, including both Mac and PC computers. Java applications can be embedded in cell phones and web pages, but even coffee makers and household thermostats. Still, the security risks that come with Java cause many people to leave it disabled. If you do encounter a website that requires Java, you can enable it or use another browser that has it enabled.
Risks
Java has two main parts: the browser plug-in and the runtime that runs on your computer. Many people have complained that Java is insecure, which is a reference to the browser plug-in.
According to Kaspersky Lab, the Java browser plug-in was responsible for at least 50% of all cyber attacks in the last year. Thus, security experts strongly suggest that you disable it in your browser. If you do decide to enable it, just know that there is a chance for hackers to steal your personal information, such as credit card numbers or passwords. Most people do not need the Java browser plug-in; however, so disabling it doesn’t cost you anything in the long run. Java runtime also takes up a lot of space in your system and constantly wants to be updated, so disabling it too is recommended.
