Windows XP: Java is Dead to Me

Oracle is prepared to release its quarterly patches on July 15, 2014. Instead of providing smaller groups of updates on a more regular basis, Oracle chooses to release stacks of patches four times a year. With the Java in its bunkhouse, you'd think the company would plan for more frequency. Only Adobe products are more susceptible to flaws.

The full security alert for the July 15, 2014 patch release is here:  Critical Patch Updates, Security Alerts and Third Party Bulletin

For those still using Windows XP, don't expect Oracle to pass on any special favors. In a FAQ released just last week, Oracle has taken the same stance as many vendors. Since Windows XP is no longer supported by Microsoft (as of April 8, 2014), Java will no longer receive updates for Windows XP, either.

The FAQ states that Java 7 is the very last version available to Windows XP. Windows XP users can continue to use Java 7, but it will no longer be updated. To run newer versions of Java, Oracle is recommending users upgrade to Windows Vista or later.

You really can't blame Oracle for taking a stand against Windows XP. Windows XP, right now, is the most unsecure OS on the planet. Java has never been a star pupil in the computer security realm, but at least Oracle chooses to still update it whenever serious flaws are found.