Published: September 3, 2003 | Updated: May 7, 2004
Here are some answers to some frequently asked questions about transitioning from the Microsoft® Java Virtual Machine (MSJVM).
What is the Microsoft Java Virtual Machine?
The Microsoft Java Virtual Machine (MSJVM) is technology that has been included in some versions of Microsoft Internet Explorer, a component of Microsoft Windows®. This technology allows certain types of programs, called Java applications or Java applets, to run on Windows-based computers.
How does the April 2004 settlement between Microsoft and Sun Microsystems affect the MSJVM transition?
The only change is the date of end of support for the MSJVM, to December 31, 2007, from September 30, 2004. This provides customers a considerable period of time to transition from the MSJVM on a schedule that they can manage and plan for. MSJVM support specifics:
How might the April 2004 settlement between Microsoft and Sun affect my business?
Microsoft and Sun resolved earlier litigation with a settlement agreement in January 2001. The 2001 settlement agreement contemplated the phase-out of the MSJVM, including end of support. The only change to the phase-out contemplated by the 2001 settlement agreement is the extension of the date of end of support for the MSJVM, to December 31, 2007. The MSJVM is on many desktops and servers because it was included in some versions of Internet Explorer, a component of Windows. In addition, some products use the MSJVM in custom Java applications for clients or servers, as well as Java applets. These may be business-to-business or business-to-consumer applications and Web sites. To work properly they require the MSJVM or another vendor's Java virtual machine to reside on the computer. Customers are encouraged to identify and eliminate any dependencies on the MSJVM before support ends on December 31, 2007.
What does the April 2004 settlement mean in terms of Microsoft support for Java?
Going forward, Microsoft is not including the MSJVM in its software and SKUs. Software and SKUs that currently include the MSJVM will continue to be retired or replaced by versions not containing the MSJVM. As part of the new agreement, Sun and Microsoft have pledged to improve collaboration and the sharing of technical information. Any future outcomes of this collaborative effort will originate with the Microsoft .NET product team.
Will the unsupported MSJVM still work after December 31, 2007?
Although the MSJVM may still function after December 31, 2007, it will not be supported. If a security issue were to arise after that date, the MSJVM may become unsafe to use. Microsoft recommends that customers who continue to use the MSJVM after December 31, 2007, lock down Internet Explorer security zones so that the MSJVM works only with trusted sites.
What is Microsoft asking customers to do and why?
Customers are encouraged to take proactive measures to stay informed about this and other obsolete software and move away from the MSJVM before December 31, 2007. This includes identifying both internal and licensed applications that depend on the MSJVM, and then replacing or updating these applications as part of a normal migration and IT update. Businesses that plan their transition now will have adequate time to identify their MSJVM dependencies, to establish a migration strategy, and to plan, test, and deploy optimal solutions. The MSJVM is obsolete code that is no longer enhanced or developed. Microsoft will continue only to provide security updates to help our customers maintain a safe computing environment.
Which computer programs use the MSJVM?
A number of products use the MSJVM in custom Java applications for clients or servers, as well as Java applets. These may be business-to-business or business-to-consumer applications and Web sites. They depend on the MSJVM to be installed in order to work properly. Java applets start automatically and may perform a variety of functions, ranging from simple loan calculators or stock quote tickers to more complex functionality for the services the Web site provides. MSJVM-dependent software may originate with:
Which versions of Windows have the MSJVM?
MSJVM is included with:
What are the terms of the April 2004 agreement?
On April 2, 2004, Microsoft and Sun announced an agreement to settle litigation and increase technical cooperation, which will benefit customers of both companies. As part of this agreement, Microsoft will be able to support the MSJVM until December 31, 2007.
What MSJVM software is available today?
The MSJVM is not available for distribution from Microsoft. It is not being included in future Microsoft products. Microsoft software and SKUs currently including the MSJVM will continue to be retired or replaced by versions not containing the MSJVM. From 1999 to 2003, Microsoft issued 10 MSJVM security updates. A cumulative patch is available on the Windows Update Web site.
Where can I find MSJVM security updates?
Microsoft Security Bulletin MS03-011 contains a cumulative security update for the MSJVM. The easiest way to determine if you need this update is to visit the Windows Update Web site and scan your computer for available updates. Windows Update will recommend any available updates that your computer may require.
May I legally install copies of Windows or other software containing the MSJVM?
Customers who have versions of Windows that contain MSJVM code may install and use those versions of Windows pursuant to the terms and conditions of their license agreements. However, Microsoft recommends that users be cautious about using software that includes the MSJVM past December 31, 2007, and consider implementing a solution that is not dependant on the MSJVM.
If I install Windows XP SP1a or later, will it remove my current MSJVM?
No. Upgrading the operating system will not remove an existing MSJVM on the computer.
Is there a way to ensure that a computer does not include the MSJVM?
Yes. Customers can purchase a new computer with Windows XP SP1a or later, or run a clean install of (not an upgrade to) Windows XP SP1a or later.
I am a consumer. Am I affected? Is there anything I need to do right now?
Consumers may have the MSJVM installed on their computers and may be using programs that are dependent on the MSJVM. Because the MSJVM will continue to be supported through December 31, 2007, no immediate action is required. However, Microsoft recommends that consumers who are using MSJVM-dependent programs consult their software vendors' Web sites for any information on action they might need to take in the future. For instance, users might be advised to update or replace their current versions before December 31, 2007.
Microsoft also recommends that all Windows users keep current with the latest software and hardware updates by visiting the Windows Update Web site, or by enabling the Automatic Updates feature that is available in later versions of Windows.
I am a business owner. When should I start taking action?
The MSJVM is old technology that has not been updated in many years, apart from security updates. Customers are encouraged to take proactive measures to stay informed about this and other obsolete software and move away from the MSJVM in a timely fashion. Businesses that plan their transition now will have adequate time to understand their MSJVM dependencies, to establish a migration strategy, and to plan, test, and deploy optimal solutions.
How should I get started?
Every organization will have different needs and requirements. Microsoft recommends that businesses, IT professionals, IT solution providers, and developers review the appropriate MSJVM Transition Guide as a first step.
What resources are available to help me transition from the MSJVM?
Microsoft is providing a rich set of tools and guidance for IT pros and developers.
I am a developer. Can I continue to distribute the MSJVM?
The End User License Agreements (EULAs) for both Microsoft Visual J++® and the Microsoft SDK for Java grant limited rights to redistribute the installer for the MSJVM (msjavx86.exe). However, Microsoft highly discourages continued redistribution of the MSJVM as provided for in these EULAs. For more information, please check the software use guidelines:
How can I determine my dependencies on the MSJVM?
Microsoft is providing customers with developer and IT pro versions of the MSJVM Transition Guide, which provides a comprehensive starting point for analyzing MSJVM dependencies. The MSJVM Diagnostic Tool is designed to help businesses with complex IT infrastructures easily run dependency analyses. It checks for the use and dependencies of programs and Web sites and issues a customized report that identifies such dependencies.
I am running the MSJVM Diagnostic Tool and have questions. Where can I get assistance?
Worldwide support is available at no charge for the MSJVM Diagnostic Tool. In the United States, please contact Microsoft Product Support Services (PSS) at (800) 936-5800. For international support, please contact your local subsidiary.
What migration options are available?
Microsoft is committed to helping customers, IT professionals, IT solution providers, and developers work through the transition in the most cost-efficient way possible, while helping to maintain the reliability, security, and availability of their IT environments. Because every organization has different requirements, businesses should tailor the options that are most appropriate to fit their own particular needs. Your organization may decide to select one or more of the following migration options.
Which third-party Java Run-time Environment (JRE) does Microsoft recommend?
Because Microsoft does not support third-party Java implementations, including monitoring and fixes of potential and exposed security vulnerabilities, we do not distribute or make recommendations on these products. However, customers can install any compatible Java virtual machine on any computer running Microsoft Windows that they wish. Microsoft works with third parties to ensure that they have all of the information they need for their technologies to work well in the Windows environment.
What partner and MCS solutions are available?
Third-party consulting services and Microsoft Consulting Services (MCS) are available to assist customers needing additional assessment and transition assistance. Please speak with your existing partner or MCS service provider for assistance.
If I encounter problems with this migration, what should I do?
If you need additional support, you may need to work with your trusted IT solution provider or a Microsoft technical support representative. If you choose to work with a third-party IT solution provider, you will need to work with that provider directly for any support needs.
How can I avoid running Java programs in Internet Explorer?
Internet Explorer users can disable or enable running Java programs by adjusting their Security settings in Internet Options, which is available on the Tools menu.
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