Java Vulnerability

[Boto]

I have had an email from Norton about a vulnerability in Java. It suggested I applied Oracle’s recently released security patch. When I looked up this on the website there are various versions of Java. How do I find out which I have? Many thanks.

[plowter]

If you've got Java installed there'll be a Java utility in your Control Panel.
You can use that to install the latest update.
What version of Windows?

[Boto]

Thanks, Plowter. I have Windows 7. Can't see anyting about Java in control panel. Does that mean I haven't got it?

[plowter]

If you look at Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features that'll list the installed programs.
If you can't see Java then it hasn't been installed.

If your Norton is up to date that should deal with the latest threats.

[VHG]

Just search on "getjava" and it takes you to the right web page.

This web page below will check which version of Java you have and download the latest one

http://www.java.com/en/download/index.jsp

[Boto]

Thanks for your answers. I don't appear to have Java, do I need it? What does it do?

[VHG]

Java display images and graphics and other features on SOME web sites.

If none of the web sites you visit use Java then you dont need it.

If you visit a web site that needs Java you will be prompted to install it by the web site.

[Boto]

Thanks a lot for your replies.