Let’s start with the basics. What is Java, and do you really need it?          

Java is a popular programming language that is used to develop games, applications, and utilities  that are found on the Internet, cell phones, and other digital devices. There are thousands of other programming languages out there, such as C, C++, HTML, ColdFusion, Python, Flash, PHP, Visual Basic, and more, but Java has gained popularity in the last few years because it will work on many different kinds of computers.

So why are there so many pesky updates for Java?

The same reason that there are frequent updates for the Flash player. Because these applications are installed on so many computers around the world, and because they are cross-platform, they are extremely vulnerable to security risks. They are frequently targeted by hackers and other cyber criminals, so Sun Microsystems is constantly trying to stay one step ahead of the bad guys.

Can I disable Java’s automatic updates?

Yes, it is possible to disable the automatic updates, but it is not a good idea. Disabling these updates is kind of like asking a thief to your home for dinner when you know you’re not going to be there! The risks are just too great.

What if you are sick and tired of dealing with these Java updates, and you are willing to do whatever it takes to get rid of them? Are there any safe options?

While we do not recommend disabling Java, if you’ve completely run out of patience, uninstalling Java completely is a better option than disabling it. If it is not installed on your machine, it cannot be exploited.

What are the consequences of uninstalling Java completely? 

First of all, there are no security risks involved with uninstalling Java. Instead, the consequences have to do with a user’s experience when surfing the Web. In other words, you may come across some Web elements that will not work properly. If you try to use a program or Web site that relies on Java, you may see an error message or a blank space on a Web page. The good news is that you can always download Java for free and reinstall it when (or if) you need it.

If you have been getting automatic Java updates for some time, you may have lots of different versions installed on your machine. Can you, or should you, delete older versions? 

Yes, absolutely. They simply take up space on your hard drive, and they just keep stacking up in your Programs folder. 

How do you delete them?  

This article by Cisco tells how to remove old versions of Java.