Updating Java the Manual Way

How to Update Java Manually

When you install Java on your machine – it will normally install a small program at startup that checks for updates – that program can get disabled – or not do its job – or you might just wish to check for updates manually for peace of mind.

Here is how to check for Java updates…

1. Open the URL https://www.java.com/ in a new browser tab or window (clicking the link here will do that).
2. Underneath the big “Free Java Download” button – click the link that says “Do I have Java?” – we have highlighted this in blue for you in the image below:

Click the link - Do I have Java?

Click the link – Do I have Java?

3. Next – click the big red button that is labeled – “Verify Java Version”:

Click - Verify Java Version

Click – Verify Java Version

4. Now – wait while Java installation is verified

Wait while your Java version is verified...

Wait while your Java version is verified…

5. You should see one of 3 messages – either you have no Java/Java is disabled – or – your version of Java is out of date with a link to the update – or – as in this case – that your Java version has been verified, and you have the latest Java installed:

Java installation has been Verified - you have the latest version of Java

Java installation has been Verified – you have the latest version of Java

If you need to update java – just follow the prompts – after downloading the installer, you will need to close out all your browsers so that the Java browser plugin can be updated. However – if you are told that you have an up to date java installation – and that you have Java 7 Update 10 – please read *this blog post on Java Vulnerability* – because at time of posting, J7U10 has a zero-day exploit – which leaves you vulnerable to malware still.

Alternative Method of Updating Java

We are a big fan of the website ‘Ninite.com’ – this site is built by a company called ‘Security By Design’ – they provide a way of downloading tiny installer/updaters for a long list of programs. Java in on their list of programs you can get an installer/updater for.

Benefits of using ninite installer/updaters:

  • start working as soon as you run it
  • not bother you with any choices or options
  • install apps in their default location
  • say no to toolbars or extra junk
  • install 64-bit apps on 64-bit machines
  • install apps in your PC’s language or one you choose
  • do all its work in the background
  • install the latest stable version of an app
  • skip up-to-date apps
  • skip any reboot requests from installers
  • use your proxy settings from Internet Explorer
  • download apps from each publisher’s official site
  • verify digital signatures or hashes before running anything
  • work best if you turn off any web filters or firewalls
  • save you a lot of time!

How to use ninite.com to install/update Java:

Visit Ninite.com - Check the box next to 'Java' - then scroll down...

Visit Ninite.com – Check the box next to ‘Java’ – then scroll down…

Scroll down the page until you see the 'Get Your Ninite' Button... Click it!

Scroll down the page until you see the ‘Get Your Ninite’ Button… Click it!

Once you have downloaded and saved the ninite.com installer/updater to your computer, we recommend moving it to a safe place, such as your desktop, or – c:\ninite – and then make a shortcut on your desktop – believe us, you’ll use your ninite updaters often when you can find them quickly and easily… put a shortcut on your desktop!!

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