Java Runtime Environment 7

Java Runtime Environment is an essential piece of software for pretty much any computer. Often called the Java Virtual Machine, it’s a vital layer of invisible technology that helps you to run a whole gamut of Java web-based applications. It comes as standard with some operating systems, so you may just need to upgrade.

Allegedly, there are almost one billion downloads of Java Runtime per year and it’s reputed to be on three billion mobile phones. For most end-users, this software gives them everything they need without them having to think about it.

Programmers and other specialists may find more to gripe about. And there are some questions about Java’s fitness for future app development. Depending on its ability to flex to meet future requirements, some of its competitors may finally get a crack of the whip.

Pro's: World domination. Java Runtime Environment is so easy to use and very reliable that pretty much everyone in the known universe uses it, often without knowing what it is or what it’s doing.

Con's: Microsoft Windows doesn’t come with Java built-in so you will have to get it from a third-party supplier. Just make sure you get the genuine Sun Microsystems version of Java Runtime Environment.

Conclusion: It’s hard to see how anyone could use a computer or smart phone without Java Runtime Environment. It’s the oil on the wheels of the majority of web-based applications and few programmes will run on the internet without it. There are other alternatives out there, but for most end-users, Java Runtime is pretty unbeatable. It’s free, it works and almost everyone in the known universe with a computer or phone has it.