Apart from if your computer is running Windows XP, Vista, 7, or 8, your computer will also have a 32-bit or 64-bit version that is installed on your computer. The version of Java should correspond with the 32-bit or 64-bit version of Windows on your computer. 


As the 64-bit Windows operating systems (Windows 7, Vista and XP) come with the 32-bit version of Internet Explorer installed, Java recommends installing the 32-bit version of Java for versions of Windows 7, Vista, and XP that are operating on a 64-bit version of Windows.


Therefore, to determine the version of Java that you need:


  1. Determine if your computer is 64-bit or 32-bit. There is usually a sticker on the computer. If there is not a sticker on your computer, please click here to determine which version of Windows your computer is running.
  2. If you are running a 64-bit version of Windows, download the 64-bit version of Java. However, if you are also running Windows 7, Vista, and XP, download the 32-bit version of Java instead.
  3. To download your preferred version of Java, go to Java.com and click on "Free Download". Look for the "See all Java Downloads" link below the main download icon to access a web-page that allows you to choose the version of Java to download. Alternatively, click here to go directly to the "See all Java Downloads" page.
  4. Underneath the "Windows" header, you will see a 'Windows Offline (64-bit)' and 'Windows Offline' link. 


    The 'Windows Offline' link is the 32-bit version of Java.
    The 'Windows Offline (64-bit)' link is the 64-bit version of Java.

  5. Click on the link that corresponds to the version of Windows that you are running.
  6. A download will begin once you click on the link. 
  7. Open the file has finished downloading, open the file to begin the installation of Java.