Java Runtime Environment (JRE) OR Java SE Development Kit (JDK)??

[The_Prodigy1982]

As an average customer, what version of Java is recommended?
(for best compatibility and safety online)

•Java Runtime Environment (JRE) OR Java SE Development Kit (JDK)...

 

[njlx2016]

You shouldn't install Java unless you absolutely need to, as it is notorious for opening up gaping security holes in your computer. Is there a program or website you use on a regular basis that requires it?

 

[The_Prodigy1982]

Yes there are like 1 or 2 websites that still use Java... and that I occasionally need.

 

[njlx2016]

I'd still highly recommend against installing Java. If you absolutely need to install it however, just realize that you are poking massive holes in your computer's security.

Further reading:

deadspin-quote-carrot-aligned-w-bgr-2 (I posted this link for the comments more than the article)
https://heimdalsecurity.com/blog/java-biggest-security-hole-your-computer/
How big a security risk is Java? Can you really quit using it? | ZDNet

If you still want to install it (again, highly not recommended) (like, seriously, massive, cevernous security vulnerabilities) you probably don't need the Java Development Kit (JDK) then, as it's mostly used by programmers in an integrated development environment.

More information on installing Java:
https://java.com/en/download/help/index_installing.xml?os=Macintosh+OS+X&j=8&n=20

 

[doogald]

You shouldn't install Java unless you absolutely need to, as it is notorious for opening up gaping security holes in your computer. Is there a program or website you use on a regular basis that requires it?

This is true for Java applets in web browsers, but Java apps that are not browser-based applets are generally fine and don't necessarily open up gaping holes. That said, any app that I use that is Java based (the finance app Moneydance and the backup app Crashplan) includes its own JRE as part of that app package.

I keep the Java plugin turned off but there are occasional web sites that I use (thankfully, very infrequently) that frustratingly still use Java applets, so I turn it on just before I use those sites and ten turn it right back off. And Safari also prompts you before running applets on a site, and you can even set the plugin off for any site that asks for it if you like.