Java help

[greyowl]

I have heard that Java is a security hazard.  Also, I have an older laptop with a small hard drive (20 GB) so I am trying to gain some space by removing programs that I never use.   I don't think that I have any programs that need java, but I am not absolutely sure.  I seem to remember installing java when I was trying out a download manager that used java.

Here is the java that is on the laptop:

Two Program Folders:  jre 1.8.0_4  (137mb)
                                    jre 7 (123 mb)

Add/Remove Programs Lists:  Java 7 update 76 (120mb)
                                                Java 8 update 40 (77mb)
                                                Java Fx 2.1.1 (21mb)

I am looking for some advise on removing java from the laptop--some questions:
Is it a good idea to remove java?
What type of programs use java?
Will removal of java have any detrimental effects on the performance of the laptop?
Is java a security risk?
Is removal of java as easy as using the Add/Remove Programs and deleting the program files?

Your help will be appreciated.

[essexboy]

My little homily on Java.  Use Javara to uninstall 


: Keep Java Updated :

WARNING: Java is the #1 exploited program at this time. The Department of Homeland Security recommends that computer users disable Java
See this article

I would recommend that you completely uninstall Java unless you need it to run an important software.
In that instance I would recommend that you disable Java in your browsers until you need it for that software and then enable it. (See How to diasble Java in your web browser and How to unplug Java from the browser)

If you do need to keep Java then download JavaRa
Run the programme and select  Remove Java Runtime.  Uninstall all versions of Java present
Once done then run it again and select Update Java runtime > Download and install Latest version

[greyowl]

Thank you for the information and advise.

I think I will remove all Java.

Do I understand that I should use JavaRa to remove all Java?  Or, do I use JavaRa first and then Add/Remove Programs?

[REDACTED]

Thank you for the information and advise.

I think I will remove all Java.

Do I understand that I should use JavaRa to remove all Java?  Or, do I use JavaRa first and then Add/Remove Programs?

In my case I ran Add/Remove or Program feature/uninstall ( depending your OS ) and then run JavaRA to get rid off Java leftovers.

[greyowl]

Thanks for the information.