Oracle ends Java support for Windows XP

Oracle has ended support for the Java platform running on Windows XP, and has advised customers continuing use of the product will be “at their own risk”.

The next versions of Java 7 and Java 8 plug ins, 7u65 and 8u11, which are due for general availability later this month, will not support Windows XP.

Oracle confirmed the cessation of support on its FAQ support site, and referenced its third party support terms as the basis for the cancellation.

“Microsoft stopped supporting Windows XP and therefore it is no longer an officially supported platform."

Windows XP users are unable to install Java 8 on their systems without receiving error messages, and are being asked to upgrade to Windows Vista or later to install the product.

Oracle directed iTnews to a statement from Henrik Stahl, vice president for Java product management, who said there were a few compatibility issues with Java 8 on Windows XP since it was not an "officially supported configuration". 

"For now, we will keep Java users on Windows XP secure by updating them to the most recent Java 7 security update on an ongoing basis.

"Java users on more recent Windows versions can choose between Java 7 and 8, and depending on their choice will be kept up to date with the most recent Java 7 or 8 security update respectively."

According to netmarketshare, more than 25 percent of PCs globally are still running Windows XP.