Oracle announced yesterday that they will be deprecating the use of Java browser plugins starting in JRK 9, with it ultimately being removed altogether in future versions of the Java runtime environment. Oracle is advising all Java developers to to instead switch to the  plugin-free Java Web Start technology, which moves Java outside of the browser while still enabling applications to be launched via links.  This move is an important one for computer security as the browser plugin is a common target used by attackers to exploit vulnerabilities and install malware on an unsuspecting computer.

Vulnerabilities Targeted by Explot Kits. Courtesy NTT Com Security 

For years now, we have been advocating the removal of Java altogether as most people do not require it.  The only users who require Java to be installed are those who actually use a Java application on their computer.  When you tell this to users, though, people become confused and think that since they visit sites that require Javascript, they also need to keep Java installed. It is important to note that Javascript has absolutely no connection to Oracle's Java and that they are completely different languages.  The only thing they share in common is the confusing use of the word Java.  

Javascript is bundled into all modern browsers and is used by almost all modern web browsers. Javascript is also integrated directly into almost all browsers, so though you can disable it, you are unable to completely remove it.  As Javascript is integral to the functioning of many sites, including BleepingComputer.com, it is advised not disable Javascript but instead install an application like NoScript that allows you to limit what javascript scripts run on your computer. Therefore, if you have been holding off on uninstalling Java because you felt that Javascript would be affected, this is not the case and you can freely and safely uninstall Oracle Java.