How to Check Java Version on Windows Server 2012 R2

Java is a popular programming language that is widely used for both desktop and web application development. Checking the Java version installed on your Windows Server 2012 R2 is essential to ensure that your applications are running correctly and securely. However, many Windows Server users find it challenging to check their Java version and encounter various technical issues along the way. In this blog post, we will provide you with several methods to check your Java version on a Windows Server 2012 R2 and how to troubleshoot common issues.

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The Challenge of Checking Java Version on Windows Server 2012 R2

Windows Server 2012 R2 is a complex system designed to manage resources across a network of computers. It is capable of running multiple server roles and applications simultaneously. Checking the Java version on Windows Server 2012 R2 can be a challenging task, especially for novice users. Some of the common challenges include:

  1. Unsupported Java versions
  2. Missing or corrupt Java runtime environment (JRE)
  3. Conflicting Java versions installed on the system
  4. Incorrect version number reported
  5. Command line or registry errors

Things You Should Prepare for

Before proceeding with any of the methods for checking the Java version on Windows Server 2012 R2, there are several things that you should prepare for:

  1. Access to an administrator account
  2. Internet connectivity
  3. The latest Java version downloaded and installed on your system

Method 1: Using Command Prompt

Command Prompt is an effective tool for carrying out system administrative tasks. The following steps will show you how to use the command-line interface to check the Java version on a Windows Server 2012 R2:

  1. Open the Command Prompt as an administrator by pressing the Windows key + X keys at the same time, then select Command Prompt (Admin) from the list of options.
  2. Type the following command and hit Enter: java -version
  3. The Java version currently installed on your system will be displayed in the Command Prompt window.

Pros:

  • Quick and easy to use
  • Does not require an internet connection

Cons:

  • May not be suitable for novice users
  • May not accurately report the Java version in certain circumstances

Method 2: Using Java Control Panel

Java Control Panel is an application that enables you to configure and manage the Java runtime environment installed on your system. The following steps will show you how to check the Java version using the Java Control Panel:

  1. Press the Windows key + R keys at the same time to launch the Run dialog box.
  2. Type control in the Open field and hit Enter.
  3. Select Java (32-bit) or Java (64-bit) depending on your system architecture.
  4. Click on the Java tab.
  5. Click on the View button under the section labeled Java Runtime Environment.
  6. The Java version installed on your system will be displayed in the Java Runtime Environment Settings dialog box.

Pros:

  • Easy to use
  • Provides more detailed information about the Java version and configuration

Cons:

  • May require additional steps to access the Java Control Panel
  • May not be suitable for novice users
  • May not accurately report the Java version in certain circumstances

Method 3: Using Java Checker Website

If you don’t have access to the command line or the Java Control Panel, you can use an online Java Checker website to check your Java version. The following steps will show you how to use Java Checker website:

  1. Launch your preferred web browser (e. g. Google Chrome, Firefox, etc.)
  2. Go to http://javachecker.com/
  3. Wait for the website to load completely, then click on the big blue Check Java Version button.
  4. The Java version installed on your system will be displayed on the page.

Pros:

  • Easy to use
  • Works on any operating system

Cons:

  • Requires an internet connection
  • May not accurately report the Java version in certain circumstances

Why Can’t I Check My Java Version on Windows Server 2012 R2?

There may be several reasons why you are unable to check your Java version on Windows Server 2012 R2. Some of these reasons include:

  1. Unsupported Java version: If you are using an outdated Java version that is no longer supported, you may encounter issues when checking the version.
  2. Missing or corrupt Java runtime environment (JRE): If the Java runtime environment (JRE) is missing or corrupt, you may not be able to check your Java version or run Java applications.
  3. Conflicting Java versions installed on the system: If you have more than one Java version installed on your system, they may conflict with each other and cause issues with version checking.

Additional Tips

To ensure accurate and reliable Java version checking on your Windows Server 2012 R2, consider the following tips:

  1. Update to the latest Java version released by Oracle.
  2. Uninstall all old and unused Java versions from your system.
  3. Check for and install latest Windows updates on your system to avoid conflicts.

5 FAQs about Checking Java Version on Windows Server 2012 R2

Q1: What Java version do I have?

A: To check your Java version on Windows Server 2012 R2, you can use the command-line interface, Java Control Panel, or an online Java Checker website.

Q2: Why is my Java version not working?

A: There may be several reasons why your Java version is not working. It could be because of an outdated or unsupported Java version, missing or corrupt Java runtime environment (JRE), or conflicting Java versions installed on the system.

Q3: How do I update Java on Windows Server 2012 R2?

A: To update Java on Windows Server 2012 R2, go to the Java download page and download the latest version. Follow the prompts for installation and restart your system if necessary.

Q4: How do I uninstall Java on Windows Server 2012 R2?

A: To uninstall Java on Windows Server 2012 R2, go to the Control Panel, select Programs and Features, and select the Java version you want to uninstall. Click Uninstall and follow the prompts.

Q5: How do I troubleshoot Java version conflicts on Windows Server 2012 R2?

A: To troubleshoot Java version conflicts on Windows Server 2012 R2, you can try uninstalling all old and unused Java versions from your system, updating to the latest Java version, or performing a clean boot.

In Conclusion

Checking your Java version on Windows Server 2012 R2 is essential for ensuring the smooth and secure operation of your applications. In this blog post, we have provided you with several methods to check your Java version and how to troubleshoot common issues. By following our tips and best practices, you can maintain a stable and reliable Java environment for all your needs.