I found Java in Programs and Features, and note that right click will uninstall. However, I do not know if any of my programs use it. If I uninstall, and something doesn't work right, is it difficult to reinstall? Any suggestions about this?
No Problem to reinstall.
http://java.com/en/
Download x86 or x64 or both when you use a 32bit Browser.
Robin Faye ~ I wanted to do the same thing. This was helpful.~ Repair or remove programs - Windows Help -
Hi:
@songbirdfoy: FWIW, this topic is nearly a year old. The OP may no longer be following it. But thanks for the helpful link.
Few websites and (probably) fewer programs need JRE (aka "Java") these days.
(Note: "Java" and "Javascript" are not the same thing.)
To reiterate a bit on what the others have said: the safest way to proceed is to fully uninstall all versions of Java from the Windows Control Panel, perhaps even using a tool, such as JavaRa (note: version 1.6 seems to work better than the current release build). Having outdated versions and remnants on the system can create security vulnerabilities.
If you end up needing to reinstall it, the ONLY save place to get it is from the link provided in reply # 12. Be sure to opt-out (un-check/un-tick) any "freebies" that may be offered during the setup wizard, and it's vitally important to keep it fully updated with the current version (because of the previously mentioned security problems).
Merely disabling it does not fully mitigate those vulnerabilities, even if you have the most current version.
Bottom line: fully remove Java (JRE) from your system unless you absolutely need it. If you "must" keep it, be sure to fully uninstall older versions and be sure to keep it updated (and be sure to decline any bundled "freebies" that may come with the installer).
(There are many browser extensions and security products to help secure your browsers from *javascript* vulnerabilities, which are different from *java* ("JRE").)
JMHO,
MM
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