How to Check the Java Version in CMD
Checking the Java version on your system is an essential task, especially if you are a developer or a user who frequently works with Java applications. The Command Prompt (CMD) in Windows provides a straightforward way to verify the Java version installed on your computer. In this article, we will guide you through the process of checking the Java version in CMD step by step.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt
To begin, you need to open the Command Prompt. There are several methods to do this:
1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “cmd” in the Run dialog box and press Enter.
3. Alternatively, you can search for “cmd” in the Start menu and click on the Command Prompt application.
Step 2: Verify Java Installation
Once the Command Prompt is open, you can check if Java is installed on your system by typing the following command and pressing Enter:
“`
java -version
“`
If Java is installed, the output will display the version of Java you have installed, along with additional information such as the Java Runtime Environment (JRE) version and the Java Virtual Machine (JVM) version.
Step 3: Interpret the Output
The output of the `java -version` command will provide you with the following information:
1. Java version: This is the major version of Java, such as Java 11, Java 17, etc.
2. Java Runtime Environment (JRE) version: This is the version of the JRE that is running on your system.
3. Java Virtual Machine (JVM) version: This is the version of the JVM that is being used to run Java applications.
If you do not see any output or if the command is not recognized, it indicates that Java is not installed on your system. You will need to install Java before proceeding.
Step 4: Update Java (Optional)
If you find that your Java version is outdated, you may want to update it to a newer version. To update Java, follow these steps:
1. Visit the official Oracle website or the website of your preferred Java distribution (e.g., OpenJDK).
2. Download the latest version of Java for your operating system.
3. Follow the installation instructions provided on the website to install the new Java version.
By updating Java, you can ensure that your system is running the latest features and security updates.
Conclusion
Checking the Java version in CMD is a simple and effective way to verify your Java installation and ensure that you are using the latest version. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily check your Java version and update it if necessary.
