Java software allows you to run applications called "applets" that are written in the Java programming language. These applets allow you to play online games, chat with people around the world, calculate your mortgage interest, and view images in 3D. Corporations also use applets for intranet applications and e-business solutions.

Java technology was created as a computer programming tool in a small, secret effort called "the Green Project" at Sun Microsystems in 1991.

As it turns out, the Internet was ready for Java technology, and just in time for its initial public introduction in 1995, the team was able to announce that the Netscape Navigator Internet browser would incorporate Java technology.

Now, nearing its twelfth year, the Java platform has attracted over 5 million software developers, worldwide use in every major industry segment, and a presence in a wide range of devices, computers, and networks of any programming technology.

Today, you can find Java technology in networks and devices that range from the Internet and scientific supercomputers to laptops and cell phones, from Wall Street market simulators to home game players and credit cards -- just about everywhere.

This process requires you to download an executable file (e.g., jre-6u5-windows-i586-p-s.exe, appx. 15.2 Mb size) that includes all the files needed for the complete installation. You do not need to remain connected to the Internet during the installation. The file can also be copied to a computer that is not connected to the Internet.

Download Java Software for your desktop computer now!

Browser(s): Internet Explorer 5.5, Internet Explorer 6.x, Netscape 6.2x, Netscape 7, Mozilla 1.4+, Firefox

Here are some key features of "Java Runtime Environment":

· Write software on one platform and run it on practically any other platform
· Create programs to run within a web browser and web services
· Develop server-side applications for online forums, stores, polls, HTML forms processing, and more
· Combine Java technology-based applications or services to create highly customized applications or services
· Write powerful and efficient applications for mobile phones, remote processors, low-cost consumer products, and practically any device with a digital heartbeat

What's New in This Release: [ read full changelog ]

· Improved reliability. The JVM running the applet is isolated from the web browser at the operating system level. If something should go wrong while running the applet, or if an uncooperative applet refuses to shut down, the new Java Plug-In detects and
· Built-in JNLP support. The new plug-in offers the capability to launch applets directly from JNLP files, unifying deployment of Java content both in the browser and out of the browser (via Java Web Start). Developers can now reuse JNLP extensions for ad
· Per-applet command-line arguments. JVM command-line arguments may be specified on a per-applet basis, providing fine-grained control over options such as the heap size and Java 2D hardware acceleration features. JNLP-launched applets simply incorporate
· Multiple Java Platform version support. Each individual applet instance may request a different Java Platform version on which to run. This feature is designed for enterprise customers which prefer to qualify their applets against e...