How to Disable Java Across Your Entire Mac

How to Disable Java Across Your Entire Mac

There has been a lot of concern over the security of running Java in your browser recently, largely due to a recent bug discovered in the latest update to the Java 7 runtime. Even though Sun has released an update to address the issue, however, the Department of Homeland Security and many cyber security experts still advise users that they’re safer and better off without it.

Java Security Bug Exploit

Fortunately, it’s both possible and simple to completely disable Java from running in any browser on your Mac by following the below directions (via ZDNet):

Step 1

Screen Shot 2013-01-16 at 10.14.24 PM
  • Go to the Apple symbol () in the menu bar.
  • Select System Preferences.
  • On System Preferences, type in Java and select the highlighted panel.

Step 2

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A new window will appear warning you that the Java settings need to be opened in a new console. This will open. To finish disabling Java, simply:

  • Hit the Security tab.
  • On the Security settings, uncheck the box saying Enable Java content in the browser.
  • Hit Apply then OK.

That’s all there is to it! Java is now dead as a doornail, never to grace your Mac again unless you decide you want it to. Head on over to the original post at ZDNet for additional instructions, including how to disable Java on a Windows-based computer.

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