We encourage you to contact us with any questions or concerns.
Burke Library - 3rd Floor
helpdesk@hamilton.edu
859-4181
859-4185 - fax
Keep Java up-to-date
If you choose to keep Java installed on your computer (whether disabled or not) it is important to keep it up-to-date. Intructions that will help you do this are found here. NOTE: If you install a new version of Java from Java's web site, remember to un-check the box to install the "ASK.com" toolbar. It is not needed.
The instructions below will help you disable Java in the individual browser(s) you use for your day-to-day web activities. For those who have no need for web sites or web programs that require Java, instructions are also included that will help you disable Java globally. In most cases, you will be alerted to the need for Java when you visit a site or use a program feature that requires it. At that point you must decide if another (safer) web site or program can be used instead. If you have no other option, you can enable Java selectively using instructions found here.
Known sites and applications in use at Hamilton that require Java.
(If you have no need for Java and want to turn it off globally, skip this section and proceed to the next section.)
If you know you must use a web site or program that requires Java (e.g. certain features in Blackboard Learn), only one of your browsers should have Java enabled. Java should be disabled in all your remaining browsers. If you have not previously turned Java off globally using the Java Control Panel (Windows) or the Java Preference (Macintosh) then you may turn it off selectively in those browsers you intend to use for your daily work on the web. As an alternative, if you prefer to use only one browser for all your browsing, then you must learn to turn it off and on as needed. These instructions describe how to turn it off.
Safari (Macintosh)
Firefox (Windows & Macintosh)
Chrome (Windows & Macintosh)
Internet Explorer 7 and above (Windows)
Follow these instructions if you are sure you won't need Java. Turning Java off globally makes it unavailable regardless of the browser you use. It will remain available, however, for any applications installed on your computer that use Java. If you are unsure, you can still turn it off globally and then refer back to these instructions later if you need to turn it back on.
Windows (all versions)
NOTE: It is important to remove older versions of Java prior to proceeding with these instructions. You can keep the newest version of Java installed as long as it is disabled.
Macintosh (OS 10.7.3 and up) Lion & Mountain Lion
NOTE: Versions of the Macintosh OS that are below 10.7.3 do not have the Java Preference and, therefore, cannot be turned off globally.
