Peter said:
My computer gets very slow as the session goes on and among the
suspects is Java.
I doubt that that is the cause of the slowness. Why do you believe it
might be?
Can I run IE without Java?
Absolutely. Then again, if you visit a Web page that has Java content,
you won't be able to see it.
If I uninstall Java, can I get it again for free?
Yes. I would recommend uninstalling all the old versions and download
and install the latest version. Furthermore, you should download the
standalone installer:
http://www.java.com/en/download/manual.jsp
Download the 15.18 MB offline installer:
jre-6u7-windows-i586-p-s.exe
Also note the "Instructions" link on the same line:
http://www.java.com/en/download/help/6000010400.xml
Finally, there is a link to verify:
http://www.java.com/en/download/installed.jsp
How does Java gets loaded, as I can't see it in Services or Startup
tabs of Msconfig? Is it loaded when I open a particular webpage?
Unless you run IE in no add-ons mode or specifically disable it in
Manage Add-ons, the ability to view Java content is always there. And
you may tweak Java settings using Control Panel. Since I like to control
the settings, this is how mine are configured:
Update tab: "Check for Updates Automatically" is unchecked. This means
that this is something you need to take care of manually, then.
Advanced tab | Java console: select "Do not start console"
Advanced tab | JRE Auto-Download: select "Never Auto-Download
Advanced tab | Miscellaneous: deselect "Place Java icon in system tray
Doing the above should save some resources.