Java Runtime Environment for Mac (JRE for Mac) lets you play online games, chat with people around the world, calculate your mortgage interest, and view images in 3D, simply to mention a couple. Additionally, it is integral to this intranet software and other e-business options which are the basis of business computing. The Java Runtime Environment for Mac (JRE) provides the libraries, the most Java Virtual Machine, along with other components to run applets and applications written in the Java programming language. Moreover, two key deployment technologies are part of this JRE: Java Plug-in, which enables applets to run in popular browsers; and Java Web Start, which deploys standalone applications over a network.
So you just upgraded your Mac (probably to Yosemite) and now you are getting annoying browser errors that say 'To view this web content you need to install the Java Runtime Environment.' More annoyingly, after clicking through to Oracle's Java.com to 'Download Java for Mac OS X' and installing it. JDK - Java Development Kit JDK contains the Java development tool kit with the Java Run time Environment. Basically this is required for Java development. Testing & deployment will also be supported as this contains the JRE and the other required tools along.
Many cross platform programs also need Java to function correctly. Please Note: Requires 64-bit web browser. Administrator privileges for installation.
Java Standard Edition (SE) is a free software bundle that provides the Java Runtime Environment and the libraries and components you need to display a wide range of programs and Web content on 32-bit Windows PCs. It includes the Java plug-in for Web browsers and Java Web Start for deploying standalone apps written in Java over the Internet or other networks.
Java SE Version 7 Update 55 addresses 37 security vulnerabilities. Pros You probably need it: Lots of Web sites and programs depend on Java to run.
Up-to-date Java libraries and components keep your content fresh. Now with JavaFX: Java version 7 Update 55 includes JavaFX, the latest software platform and the new standard for Java-rich Internet applications (RIAs). Cons Security issues: Some computer security experts have raised warning flags about vulnerabilities in Java and its components. Java 7.55 addresses many security issues, but staying informed will help you stay safe. What's up with 8? A major update to Java SE, version 8, has also been released. Which version is right for you depends on your system, online habits, and other factors.
Bottom Line Java SE Version 7 Update 55 installed easily and seamlessly in our system. Most of what Java does only becomes apparent when it's missing or disabled, so keep your installation up to date. The Java Runtime Environment (JRE) provides the libraries, the Java Virtual Machine, and other components to run applets and applications written in the Java programming language. In addition, two key deployment technologies are part of the JRE: Java Plug-in, which enables applets to run in popular browsers; and Java Web Start, which deploys standalone applications over a network. This is the official Java Download from Sun Microsystems. Java Runtime Environment is in the category of the section.