Java software for your computer, or the java runtime environment, is also referred to as the java runtime, runtime environment, runtime, jre, java virtual machine, virtual machine, java vm, jvm, vm, java plug-in, java plugin, java add-on or java download.. The java runtime environment (jre) provides the libraries, the java virtual machine, and other components to run applets and applications written in the java programming language.. If you want to run java programs, but not develop them, download the java runtime environment, or jre™. if you want to develop applications for java, download the java development kit, or jdk™. the jdk includes the jre, so you do not have to download both separately..
Only the latest version of java runtime environment (jre) can be installed on windows 8/8.1. if you were still using windows 7, an earlier compatible jre version would have worked for you..