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.
The J2SE Java Runtime Environment (JRE) allows end-users to run Java applications.
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 ]
This update release contains functionality enhancements for Java applications:
· New JVM (Java HotSpot Virtual Machine, version 22) that improves reliability and performance
· Support for Oracle Solaris 11
· Support for Firefox 5 and later
· JavaFX is included with Java SE
For Java SE 7u2, the following system configurations have been certified:
· Oracle Solaris 11
· Firefox 5, 6, 7, and 8
Enhanced Security Through Old Release Warnings:
· If users have a version of Java on their systems that is below the security baseline, a warning message is displayed before an application or an applet can be run.
In Java SE 7u2, demos and samples have been removed from the JDK installers and placed into separate bundles:
· On Windows, demos and samples are available as .zip files.
This release introduces the following improvements for web-deployed applications:
· Non-blocking installation of JRE and JavaFX using Deployment Toolkit: The web page continues to accept user input while Deployment To...