If you already have Java Runtime Environment version 1.6.10 and up, you can update from the Java applet in Control Panel and it will “patch in place” not leaving old versions behind. If you have an older version, you need to remove all older versions as detailed below. If you didn't disable the java update check, it will let you know when the update is ready for you. If the update has been disabled, then you need to update manually using the Control Panel applet.

Oracle has released a new version of the Java Runtime Environment version 6 update 30 as of December 2011.

Note: If you don't want the 30 day free trial of Carbonite backup or the Microsoft Bing Toolbar (unnecessary anyway), make sure you untick the checkboxes. The offers vary between users. More info on the rash of free offers and not just with java updates. Keep an eye on those checkboxes when you install or update anything.

“Patch in place” removes a huge security hole that has been around for a long time with the older versions staying around as fully functional applications. Patch in place will only work from version 1.6.10 onwards.

It has been found that some versions of malware are using older versions of the Sun java runtime envirionment installed on many, if not most, computers to exploit and install trojans. Sun releases new versions with exploits patched as soon as they become of aware of a problem.

As older versions may still be installed - open Control Panel and go to Add/Remove Programs. Remove all versions of JS2E (or named Java) that are listed in the Add/Remove progam listing. Reboot. When rebooted install the updated version from the links below.

You can use the update function in the Java console. Open Control Panel > Java Control Panel > Update Tab and click on Update. Java updates correctly using this method and it's a smaller download, but slower.

To download the complete new version, click on the Java(TM) SE Runtime Environment Download link. Windows On-line and Off-line installation link is now Here - Windows On-line and Offline Installation

You can download and install manually. The on-line installation takes forever if you are on dialup.

You can then go back to:

JRE Verify Installation and Version

There is a picture on the site that tells you if you have java JRE runtime environment installed and operating correctly. It will also verify that you have the latest version. There is a Verify button on the website.

In case you are wondering what java and the java runtime environment do Java Everywhere