What actions can I take to increase the security of Java?

The advancements in technology bring better experiences to your computer. However, vigilance is still necessary to protect your computer from sophisticated security threats. Security vulnerabilities on your computer can compromise your personal data, cause unexpected behaviors or crash your system.

We have compiled a list of security best practices for running Java on your computer.

Install the latest Java

If you are not sure if an update notification for Java is authentic, we recommend that you go directly to java.com to upgrade to the latest version.

Remove older versions of Java

Security level settings

Introduced in Java 7u10 is the ability to manage when and how untrusted Java applications will run if they are included on a web page. You can set the security level from within the Java Control Panel so that you are notified before any untrusted Java applications will be run, or the application will automatically be blocked.

Security prompts when running Java in the browser

Starting with Java 7 Update 21 (April 2013), changes to the Java browser plug-in behavior will allow you to make more informed decisions before running a Java applet in the browser. A security prompt will appear asking you to confirm before allowing Java content to run in the browser.

Periodically restore security prompts that you chose to hide

To insure the continued security of your system, it is recommended that you periodically restore the prompts that you chose to hide. Seeing the prompts again provides an opportunity to review the applications and ensure that you still want them to run.

Enable automatic updates

This feature will ensure that you receive important security updates when they are released.

Clear your Java cache periodically

Don't allow applications from unknown publishers to run.