softwaretipstrickks: Java: What is it? Do I really need it? Is it safe?

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April 19, 2013

CNET Community

Java: What is it? Do I really need it? Is it safe?

Dear CNET members,

Happy Friday! This week's topic is about Java, and we aren't talking about coffee, but hey, go grab a cup and enjoy it while reading through this newsletter.

So what is Java? I'm sure that most of you've seen frequent pop-ups on your monitor saying that you need to update your Java to the latest version, and most of us, myself included, just run the update and move on, never thinking to wonder what it is or what it does. Or more related to Jean's question, if we really need it, and is it safe?

In simple terms as stated by members, Java is a programming language (not to be confused with JavaScript) and is needed only when an application or Web site that you are viewing needs it to run properly. It is similar to Adobe Flash Player in the sense that if you use any program or visit a Web site that requires Adobe Flash Player, it won't work unless you have it installed on your system. The Java Web site has more information.

So do you need Java, and is it safe? I don't want to give it away here; I'd like you all to read through what your fellow members have to say. I'm sure that by the time you've gone through the discussion, not only will you understand it better, but you'll know if you really need it and if it's safe. Thanks to all those who took the time out to help out; it's truly appreciated. Have a great weekend, everyone!

Lee Koo
Community manager

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Q:	Java: What is it? Do I really need it? Is it safe?
I have been reading from one source that Java is losing the battle with the security "holes," and the recommendation was to disable it or "unload" it from the computer completely. So that's what I did. I have not noticed any problems with not having it. I do understand it could interfere with some things when surfing in browsers. And that some of the free "word" programs won't function without Java. So what to do? Bottom line, do I need it? Is it better to be without it? Is it safe? And are there alternatives? Nowadays security is very important. Thanks.
	-- Submitted by: Jean

A:	Featured answers of the week
•	"Re: Java "
	-- Submitted by: Kees_B

•	"Bottom Line..."
	-- Submitted by: Flatworm

•	"Eventually --- You May Need Java -- But Not All of the Time "
	-- Submitted by: High Desert Charlie

•	"Java is fairly secure, but only install programs you need "
	-- Submitted by: RocketMotorTest

	Click here to read all member contributions
	Thanks to all who contributed! Click here to see all previous Community newsletters

Q: Ready to donate my old cell phones, but not my personal info

I have a small collection of old cell phones in my house that I don't use anymore. They range from old analog phones to a digital flip phones to the first iPhone. There are some non-profit organizations in my town that accept cell phone donations that state they will refurbish and donate them to organizations in need, and if not usable, recycle them responsibly.

I'd like to donate my phones to these organizations, if they can use them. However, before I do that, I want to make sure all of my history and personal information is wiped out. How can I do that? Adding to the challenge is the fact that I can't find the power adapters for all of the phones.

There was a newsletter of yours a while back on ways to recycle hard drives for reuse. I'm looking for a similar solution, but for cell phones. Thanks for any help.

-- Submitted by: Nate W.

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