How To Determine The JRE Version on Windows

Java Runtime Environment (JRE) is essential for running Java applications on your computer. Knowing which version of JRE is installed on your Windows workstation or server can help troubleshoot issues, ensure compatibility, and maintain security. This article will guide you through the steps to determine the JRE version installed on your Windows system.

Why Knowing Your JRE Version is Important

Before diving into the steps, it’s important to understand why knowing your JRE version is crucial:

1. Compatibility: Some applications require specific JRE versions to function correctly.
2. Security: Older versions of JRE may have vulnerabilities that could be exploited. Keeping your JRE updated ensures that you benefit from the latest security patches.
3. Troubleshooting: Identifying your JRE version can help resolve issues with Java applications, as support and documentation often refer to specific versions.

Steps to Determine the JRE Version

Method 1: Using Command Prompt

One of the simplest ways to check your JRE version is through the Command Prompt.

1. Open Command Prompt:
   • Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
   • Type cmd and press Enter to open the Command Prompt.
2. Check the JRE Version:
   • In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:cmdCopy codejava -version
   • The output will display the installed JRE version. It will look something like this:scssCopy codejava version "1.8.0_291" Java(TM) SE Runtime Environment (build 1.8.0_291-b10) Java HotSpot(TM) 64-Bit Server VM (build 25.291-b10, mixed mode)

Method 2: Checking the Java Control Panel

You can also determine the JRE version through the Java Control Panel.

1. Open the Java Control Panel:
   • Click on the Start menu and open the Control Panel.
   • Set the view to “Large icons” or “Small icons” to see all Control Panel items.
   • Click on the “Java” icon to open the Java Control Panel.
2. View the JRE Version:
   • In the Java Control Panel, click on the “Java” tab.
   • Click on the “View” button under the “Java Runtime Environment Settings”.
   • A new window will open, listing the installed JRE versions along with their path and enabled status.

Method 3: Checking Installed Programs

Another method involves checking the installed programs list.

1. Open Programs and Features:
   • Click on the Start menu and open the Control Panel.
   • Click on “Programs and Features” or “Uninstall a program”.
2. Locate Java:
   • Scroll through the list of installed programs to find any entries for Java.
   • The version number should be listed next to the Java entry, for example, “Java 8 Update 291”.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Command Not Recognized

Suppose you receive an error message stating that the command is not recognized. In that case, Java might not be installed correctly or the system’s PATH variable might not include the path to the Java executable.

1. Verify Java Installation:
   • Check if Java is listed in the installed programs.
   • If not, download and install the latest JRE from the official Java website.
2. Update the PATH Variable:
   • Right-click on “This PC” or “My Computer” and select “Properties”.
   • Click on “Advanced system settings” and then on “Environment Variables”.
   • In the “System variables” section, find the “Path” variable and click “Edit”.
   • Add the path to the java.exe file (e.g., C:\Program Files\Java\jre1.8.0_291\bin) to the list of paths.

Outdated Version

If you find that you have an outdated JRE version, it’s a good idea to update it.

1. Download the Latest Version:
   • Visit the official Java download page and download the latest JRE version.
2. Install the Update:
   • Run the installer and follow the prompts to install the new version.
3. Verify the Update:
   • Repeat the steps from Method 1 to ensure the new version is correctly installed.

Conclusion

Determining the JRE version on your Windows workstation or server is a straightforward process that can be done using the Command Prompt, Java Control Panel, or the list of installed programs. Keeping your JRE updated is essential for security, compatibility, and smooth operation of Java applications. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily identify and manage your JRE version, ensuring your system remains secure and efficient.