Where and How to Download Java Runtime Environment (JRE)

Java is a widely-used, cross-platform programming language. When it comes to running Java applications on your machine, you need the Java Runtime Environment (JRE). This article will guide you through the process of downloading and installing the JRE, providing you with several reliable sources including OpenJDK and Oracle JDK.

Introduction to Java Runtime Environment (JRE)

The Java Runtime Environment (JRE) is the standard software environment for running Java applications. It provides the necessary libraries and runtime components to execute the bytecodes generated by the Java compiler. JRE is platform-independent, meaning it can run on a variety of operating systems such as Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Where to Download Java Runtime Environment (JRE)

1. AdoptOpenJDK

AdoptOpenJDK is a community-driven project that provides you with a wide range of supported OpenJDK builds, including JRE. You can access AdoptOpenJDK by visiting its official website. Here are the steps to download and install JRE from AdoptOpenJDK:

Visit the AdoptOpenJDK the appropriate Java version (such as Java 8 or Java 11) and operating system (Windows, Linux, macOS, or Alpine).Click on the download button for the JRE distribution of your the installation wizard to complete the installation process.

2. SDKMan

For advanced users, SDKMan is a command-line tool that simplifies the management of multiple Java versions. It allows you to easily install and manage different Java distributions, including JRE. Here are the steps to use SDKMan:

First, you need to install SDKMan by running the following command in your terminal:

curl -s "" | bash

Add the necessary environment variables to your shell configuration file (e.g., .bashrc, .zshrc, etc.) by running:

source "$"

Install JRE using SDKMan with the following command:

sudo sdk install jre

3. Amazon Corretto

Amazon Corretto is a production-ready, open-source distribution of the OpenJDK platform that is specifically optimized for server, desktop, and IoT use cases. It is ideal for deploying Java applications in production environments. To download and install Amazon Corretto JRE, follow these steps:

Visit the Amazon Corretto website and select the appropriate version and operating system.

Download the JRE distribution and follow the installation instructions provided by the website.

4. Microsoft Azure

Microsoft Azure also provides a version of the OpenJDK JRE tailored for various environments. You can download Microsoft Azure's version of JRE from the official Azure website. Here are the steps to download and install it:

Visit the Microsoft Azure JRE page.

Select the appropriate version and operating system.

Download the package and follow the instructions for installation provided by Microsoft Azure.

5. Red Hat

Red Hat also supports the OpenJDK JRE, offering stable and supported releases. To download and install Red Hat's JRE, you can visit the Red Hat website:

Visit the Red Hat Developer website and navigate to the OpenJDK section.

Select the appropriate version and operating system.

Download the installer and follow the instructions for installation.

6. Oracle JDK

If you prefer to use Oracle's official JDK, you can download the Java SE Runtime Environment (JRE) through Oracle's official website. Here is how to do it:

Navigate to the Oracle JRE Download Page for Java SE 8 or the latest version available.

Select the appropriate version and operating system.

Download the JRE installer for your operating system (Windows, Linux, macOS).

Follow the installation wizard to complete the installation process.

Conclusion

Whether you are looking for a free and open-source JRE from projects like AdoptOpenJDK and Amazon Corretto, or a proprietary and supported JRE from Oracle, there are multiple options available to meet your needs. The method of installation will vary depending on the distribution you choose, but generally, it involves downloading an installer and running a wizard to complete the installation process.

By exploring these sources, you can ensure that your machine is ready to run Java applications with the support and features you need.