What Is Java?

Java (not to be confused with JavaScript) is a programming language brought out by Sun Microsystems in 1995. It has become one of the most popular programming languages in use due to its platform independence. This means that the program can be run on almost any type of operating system (Windows, Unix, Linux, Macintosh, cell phones etc.). There are two parts to Java. One is the runtime that is installed on the system, sometimes without the awareness of the user, this allows the user to run Java apps on his / her computer. The other is the browser plug-in which allows the user to run Java apps in the browser.

In terms of security, the Java Runtime installed on the device does not pose a cyber threat; it’s the browser plug-in that is more vulnerable. Kaspersky Lab announced that the Java browser plug-in was responsible for over 50% of all security breaches last year. Most experts will advocate  disabling of the plug-in, while some say that even the runtime should be disabled because of the updates it requires, the space it takes up and the annoying toolbars it can install on the system. If an app requires the plug-in, it can simply be re-installed.

JavaScript is a programming language that is not related to Java and is built into each individual web-browser e.g. Firefox, Chrome, Internet Explorer, Safari, Opera. It is not a plug-in and it does not present the same security issues that Java does. It is not recommended to disable it because it would ruin the experience of web-surfing as nearly all internet pages have it in use.