To install the Java Runtime Environment (JRE) on Windows 10, go to java.com, click Download Java, and run the installer you downloaded. Click Install, wait for it to finish, and click Close. To confirm it worked, open Command Prompt and type java -version. You’ll see the installed version number.
Java.com offers Oracle’s Java 8 JRE, which most older desktop apps need. Newer apps may need a newer Java version, which is distributed as a JDK or through free OpenJDK builds. Below you’ll learn which one to choose, how to install each, and how to fix “Java not recognized” errors.
Which Java should you install?
| You need Java for | Install this |
|---|---|
| An older desktop app or game that says “Java required” | Java 8 JRE from java.com |
| A newer app that lists a version like Java 17 or 21 | A free OpenJDK build of that version (for example, Eclipse Temurin) |
| Programming | A JDK (it includes everything in the JRE) |
Oracle’s Java 8 from java.com is free for personal use. Businesses may need a paid Oracle license, so many use OpenJDK builds instead.
How to install the Java 8 JRE from java.com
- Open your browser and go to java.com.
- Click Download Java. Choose the Windows Offline (64-bit) installer if you’re offered a choice.
- Open the downloaded file and click Yes on the User Account Control prompt.
- Click Install. Uncheck any optional offers you don’t want.
- Click Close when it finishes. Restart your browser or app.
How to install a newer Java version (OpenJDK)
- Go to a trusted OpenJDK provider, such as adoptium.net (Eclipse Temurin).
- Choose your version (for example, 21 LTS), Windows, x64, and JRE or JDK, then download the .msi installer.
- Run the installer. On the custom setup screen, turn on Set JAVA_HOME variable and Add to PATH.
- Finish the installation.
You can also run winget install EclipseAdoptium.Temurin.21.JRE in Command Prompt. See how to install OpenJDK on Windows for more options.
How to check that Java is installed
- Press Windows + R, type cmd, and press Enter.
- Type java -version and press Enter.
Troubleshooting
- “java is not recognized as an internal or external command”: Java isn’t on your PATH. Reinstall with the PATH option, or add the Java bin folder (for example, C:\Program Files\Java\jre-1.8\bin) to Path in System Properties > Environment Variables. Close and reopen Command Prompt afterward.
- An app says the wrong Java version: You may have several versions installed. Check Settings > Apps and remove old ones, or point the app to the right version.
- Java in the browser: Modern browsers no longer run Java applets. Java only runs desktop apps now.
Frequently asked questions
Is Java safe to install?
Yes, from java.com or a trusted OpenJDK provider. Keep it updated, and uninstall old versions you don’t need.
How do I update Java?
Oracle Java checks for updates automatically. You can also open Configure Java from the Start menu, go to the Update tab, and click Update Now.
How do I uninstall Java?
Go to Settings > Apps, find Java, and click Uninstall.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.