How Do I Uninstall Java? Mac and Windows Computers Tutorial

Do you think your computer is secure? Think again if you have Java installed. Many experts suggest that having Java might put your device at risk. Especially for home users, it’s often not even essential. So, if you’re pondering over the idea of ditching Java for safety, you’re on the right track. Dive into our simple tutorial to learn how to uninstall Java from both Windows and Mac computers.

How to Uninstall Java on Mac

Java once played a big role in many Mac applications, but not so much nowadays. So, if you’ve got Java on your Mac and aren’t using it, why not clear up some space and get rid of it? Let’s walk you through how to do just that.

Before diving in, remember that there are different methods to uninstall Java. Here, we’ll focus on three ways: a hands-on manual method, using the Mac’s Terminal, and a super easy third-party app called CleanMyMac X.

Manually Removing Java

If you’ve ever removed a program from your Mac, this method will feel familiar. Start by finding the Java installer you used to put it on your Mac. When you open the installer, you’ll need to enter your computer’s password. After that, just click ‘Remove’ and wait a bit.

After doing this, you’ll need to ensure Java is really gone. Open your Mac’s System Settings from the Apple menu. If you still see a Java option, give it a right-click (or Control-click) and choose ‘Remove Java Settings pane.’ Next, in the Finder app, you can search for any leftover Java files by visiting specific file locations. If you see any Java-related files or folders, drag them to your Trash and make sure to empty it afterward.

1. Launch the Java installer.
2. Enter the Mac admin password when prompted.
3. Click ‘Remove’.
4. In System Settings (Apple menu), Control-click on Java pane > ‘Remove Java Settings pane’.
5. In Finder, go to ‘Go to Folder’. Search and trash Java-related files from:
   • /Library/Application Support/Oracle
   • /Library/Java/
   • /Library/Internet Plug-ins/
   • /Library/PreferencePanes
6. Empty the Trash.

Using Terminal

The Terminal is a powerful tool on your Mac, but it can be a bit intimidating. If you’re comfortable using it, here’s how you can remove Java: open the Terminal and type in a few commands. These commands will seek out and remove Java files. After you’ve entered them all, just close the Terminal.

1. Open Terminal (Applications > Utilities).
2. Enter the following commands, pressing Return after each:
   • sudo rm -fr /Library/Internet\ Plug-Ins/JavaAppletPlugin.plugin
   • sudo rm -fr /Library/PreferencePanes/JavaControlPanel.prefPane
   • sudo rm -fr ~/Library/Application\ Support/Oracle/Java
   • rm -r ~/“Library/Application Support/Oracle/Java”
3. Close Terminal.

Easy Removal with CleanMyMac X

For those who want a simple and straightforward method, CleanMyMac X is your best friend. This app is designed to find and delete unwanted applications, like Java. Just download, install, and let it do the work for you. After searching for Java in the app, click ‘Uninstall’, and you’re done.

1. Install CleanMyMac X.
2. Open it > ‘Uninstaller’.
3. Find and select ‘Java’ > ‘Uninstall’.
4. For leftovers: ‘Uninstaller’ > ‘Leftovers’ > select files > ‘Uninstall’.

How to Uninstall Java on Windows

Now, for those of you using a Windows computer, removing Java is a straightforward process. Depending on which version of Windows you have, the steps vary a little, but don’t worry, we’ll guide you through each one.

Windows 11 & Windows 10

On these versions, the process is pretty much the same. Begin by clicking the ‘Start’ button (that’s the little Windows icon in the bottom left of your screen). From there, you’ll enter the ‘Settings’, then ‘System’, and finally ‘Apps & features’. A list of all your installed software will appear. Just find Java, click ‘Uninstall’, and follow any additional steps that pop up.

1. Start > Settings > System > Apps & features.
2. Find Java (might be listed as J2SE, Java 2, etc.) > ‘Uninstall’.
3. Follow prompts.

Windows 8

For Windows 8 users, start from the main screen by searching for ‘Control Panel’. Once inside, look for an option called ‘Uninstall a Program’. This will show you all the software on your computer. Find Java, select it, and either right-click and choose ‘Uninstall’ or click the ‘Uninstall’ option at the top.

1. Start screen > type ‘Control Panel’ > select.
2. ‘Uninstall a Program’ > locate Java > ‘Uninstall’.
3. Confirm uninstallation.

Windows 7 & Windows Vista

For these older versions, you’ll begin at the ‘Start’ button and then open the ‘Control Panel’. Look for a section called ‘Programs’, and within that, ‘Programs and Features’. From the list, find Java, click on it, and then ‘Uninstall’. Sometimes, you might need special permissions to remove some programs, so make sure you’re allowed to make these changes.

1. Start > Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
2. Select Java > ‘Uninstall’.
3. Note: Admin privileges might be required.

Windows XP

Last but not least, for Windows XP users, start by clicking the ‘Start’ button, followed by ‘Control Panel’. Look for an icon that says ‘Add/Remove Programs’. This is where you’ll find a list of all your software. Scroll down to find Java, click on it, and then the ‘Remove’ button.

1. Start > Control Panel > Add/Remove Programs.
2. Locate Java > ‘Remove’.

There you have it! By following these steps, you can free up some space on your computer and ensure it runs smoothly.

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