Why is Java 8 recommended?

Java.com is for end users who need Java for running applications on desktops and laptops. Java 8 integrates with your operating system to run separately installed Java applications. If you were asked to install Java to run a desktop application, it’s most likely you need Java 8.

Developers are encouraged to download the Java Development Kit from OTN downloads or Oracle OpenJDK downloads from jdk.java.net depending on their needs.

Oracle customers with access to My Oracle Support or Oracle Software Delivery Cloud should consider downloading through those services.