Change java version windows

In this article, I will show you how to install multiple Java versions on Windows and how to change the Java version on the command line and in PowerShell:

To enable these Java version change commands on your system as well, follow this step-by-step guide.

Let’s go…

Step 1: Installing Multiple Java Versions

Installing multiple Java versions in parallel is incredibly easy in Windows. You can download and run the installer for each version, which automatically installs the versions in separate directories.

Download Sources

• Java SE 1.1 – You can no longer install this version on 64-bit Windows.
• Java SE 1.2 – Installed to C:\jdk1.2.2\ and C:\Program Files (x86)\JavaSoft\JRE\1.2\ by default – I recommend changing this to C:\Program Files (x86)\Java\jdk1.2.2\ and C:\Program Files (x86)\Java\jre1.2.2\ for the sake of clarity.
• Java SE 1.3 – Installed to C:\jdk1.3.1_28\ by default – I recommend changing this to C:\Program Files (x86)\Java\jdk1.3.1_28\.
• Java SE 1.4 – Installed to C:\j2sdk1.4.2_19\ by default – I recommend changing this to C:\Program Files (x86)\Java\jdk1.4.2_19\.

Starting with the following versions, you don’t need to change the default installation directories:

• Java SE 5
• Java SE 6
• Java SE 7
• Java SE 8
• Java SE 9 / OpenJDK 9
• Java SE 10 / OpenJDK 10 (→ The most important new features in Java 10)

Attention – you may use the following Oracle distributions only for private purposes and development:

• Java SE 11 / OpenJDK 11 (→ The most important new features in Java 11)
• Java SE 12 / OpenJDK 12 (→ The most important new features in Java 12)
• Java SE 13 / OpenJDK 13 (→ The most important new features in Java 13)
• Java SE 14 / OpenJDK 14 (→ The most important new features in Java 14)
• Java SE 15 / OpenJDK 15 (→ The most important new features in Java 15)
• Java SE 16 / OpenJDK 16 (→ The most important new features in Java 16)
• Java SE 17 / OpenJDK 17 (→ The most important new features in Java 17)
• Java SE 18 / OpenJDK 18 (→ The most important new features in Java 18)
• Java SE 19 / OpenJDK 19 (→ The most important new features in Java 19)
• Java SE 20 / OpenJDK 20 (→ The most important new features in Java 20)
• Java SE 21 / OpenJDK 21 (→ The most important new features in Java 21)
• Java SE 22 / OpenJDK 22 (→ The most important new features in Java 22)
• Java SE 23 / OpenJDK 23 (→ The most important new features in Java 23)

The following version is currently an early access build. You should use it only for testing purposes:

• JDK 24 Early-Access Build

Step 2: Define Java Environment Variables

The following two environment variables decide which Java version an application uses:

• JAVA_HOME – many start scripts use this variable.
• Path – is used when running a Java binary (such as java and javac) from the console.

These variables should always point to the same Java installation to avoid inconsistencies. Some programs, such as Eclipse, define the Java version in a separate configuration file (for Eclipse, for example, this is the entry «-vm» in the eclipse.ini file).

Manually Setting the Java Environment Variables

The Java installers create various environment variables, which you need to clean up first (see below). The fastest way to change the environment variables is to press the Windows key and type «env» – Windows then offers «Edit the system environment variables» as a search result:

At this point, you can press «Enter» to open the system properties:

Click on «Environment Variables…» and the following window opens:

As the default version, I recommend the current release version, Java 23. Accordingly, you should make the following settings:

• The top list («User variables») should not contain any Java-related entries.
• The lower list («System variables») should contain an entry «JAVA_HOME = C:\Program Files\Java\jdk-23». If this entry does not exist, you can add it with «New…». If it exists but points to another directory, you can change it with «Edit…».
• Delete the following entries under «Path» (if they exist):
  • C:\ProgramData\Oracle\Java\javapath
  • C:\Program Files (x86)\Common Files\Oracle\Java\javapath
• Insert the following entry instead:
  • %JAVA_HOME%\bin

The entry should then look like the following (the other entries in the list will probably look different for you since you have other applications installed than I do):

The last entry ensures that Path and JAVA_HOME are automatically consistent.

Attention: this only works for the default setting configured here. If you change JAVA_HOME via the command line, you have to adjust Path accordingly. But don’t worry – the scripts you can download in the next step will do that automatically.

How to Check Your Java Version on Windows

Now open a command line to check the settings with the following commands:

echo %JAVA_HOME%
java -versionCode language: plaintext (plaintext)

Here’s what you should see:

Step 3: Install the Scripts to Change the Java Version

To change the Java version on the command line, I have prepared some batch files that you can copy to your system. Here is the link: scripts-up-to-java24.zip

The ZIP file contains scripts named

• java23.bat, java22.bat, java21.bat, etc., for all Java versions,
• the corresponding files java23.ps1, java22.ps1, etc. for PowerShell,
• plus two common scripts javaX.bat and javaX.ps1.

I suggest you unpack the scripts to C:\Program Files\Java\scripts.

The scripts look like this:

java23.bat:

@echo off
call javaX "Java 23" %1Code language: DOS .bat (dos)

java23.ps1

javaX "Java 23" $args[0]
Code language: PowerShell (powershell)

javaX.bat:

@echo off

if %1 == "Java 1.2" set JAVA_HOME=C:\Program Files (x86)\Java\jdk1.2.2
if %1 == "Java 1.3" set JAVA_HOME=C:\Program Files (x86)\Java\jdk1.3.1_28
...
if %1 == "Java 21" set JAVA_HOME=C:\Program Files\Java\jdk-21
if %1 == "Java 22" set JAVA_HOME=C:\Program Files\Java\jdk-22
if %1 == "Java 23" set JAVA_HOME=C:\Program Files\Java\jdk-23

if "%~2" == "perm" (
  setx JAVA_HOME "%JAVA_HOME%" /M
)

set Path=%JAVA_HOME%\bin;%Path%

echo %~1 activated.Code language: DOS .bat (dos)

javaX.ps1:

param ($javaVersion, $perm)

switch ($javaVersion) {
  "Java 1.2" { $env:JAVA_HOME = "C:\Program Files (x86)\Java\jdk1.2.2" }
  "Java 1.3" { $env:JAVA_HOME = "C:\Program Files (x86)\Java\jdk1.3.1_28" }
  ...
  "Java 21" { $env:JAVA_HOME = "C:\Program Files\Java\jdk-21" }
  "Java 22" { $env:JAVA_HOME = "C:\Program Files\Java\jdk-22" }
  "Java 23" { $env:JAVA_HOME = "C:\Program Files\Java\jdk-23" }
}

if ($perm -eq "perm") {
  [Environment]::SetEnvironmentVariable("JAVA_HOME", $env:JAVA_HOME, [System.EnvironmentVariableTarget]::Machine)
}

$env:Path = $env:JAVA_HOME + '\bin;' + $env:Path

Write-Output "$javaVersion activated."Code language: PowerShell (powershell)

In the files javaX.bat and javaX.ps1, you probably have to adjust some paths to the installed Java versions.

The scripts update the JAVA_HOME environment variable and insert the bin directory at the beginning of the Path variable. That makes it the first directory to be searched for the corresponding executable when you run Java commands such as java or javac.

(The Path variable gets longer with each change. Do not worry about it. This only affects the currently opened command line.)

Step 4: Add the Script Directory to the Path

To be able to call the scripts from anywhere, you have to add the directory to the «Path» environment variable (just like you did with «%JAVA_HOME%\bin» in the second step):

If you have installed the latest releases of all Java versions, you can use the scripts without any further adjustments. Open a new command line or PowerShell and enter, for instance, the following commands:

If one of the commands does not activate the expected Java version, please check if the path in the javaX.bat and javaX.ps1 files corresponds to the installation path of the Java version you want to activate.

Temporary and Permanent Java Version Changes

The commands presented up to this point only affect the currently opened command line or PowerShell. As soon as you open another command line, the default version defined in step 2 is active again (Java 23, if you have not changed anything).

If you want to change the Java version permanently, just add the parameter «perm» to the corresponding command, e.g.

java23 perm

Attention: To set the Java version permanently, you must open the command line or PowerShell as an administrator. Otherwise, you will get the error message «ERROR: Access to the registry path is denied.

What You Should Do Next…

I hope you were able to follow the instructions well and that the commands work for you.

Now I would like to hear from you:

Were you able to follow the steps well – or do you have unanswered questions?

Either way, let me know by leaving a comment below.

Changing the Java version on Windows 10 Command Prompt can be a useful skill for Java developers and enthusiasts. Whether you need to switch to a different version for compatibility reasons or simply want to experiment with different Java versions, knowing how to change the Java version on Command Prompt can come in handy. This blog post will guide you through the process, providing detailed instructions and insights to help you successfully change Java versions on Windows 10.

Video Tutorial:

The Challenge of Changing Java Version on Windows 10 Command Prompt

Many new Java developers may struggle with changing the Java version on Command Prompt for the first time. The Command Prompt is a powerful tool that allows users to execute commands and interact with their computer’s operating system. However, understanding how to navigate and manipulate the Command Prompt to switch Java versions can be confusing.

Things You Should Prepare for

Before you begin changing the Java version on Windows 10 Command Prompt, there are a few things you should prepare:

1. Ensure that you have multiple Java versions installed on your Windows 10 computer. If you have only one version of Java installed, you may need to download and install additional versions from the official Java website.

2. Familiarize yourself with the Command Prompt interface. Understanding basic Command Prompt commands and navigation will make the process of changing Java versions easier.

3. Make note of the location of each Java installation on your computer. You will need this information when specifying the Java version in Command Prompt commands.

Now that you are prepared, let’s explore four different methods to change the Java version on Windows 10 Command Prompt.

Method 1. Changing Java Version Using “java” Command

To change the Java version using the «java» command, follow these steps:

1. Open Command Prompt by pressing the Windows key + R, typing «cmd,» and hitting Enter.

2. Type «java -version» in the Command Prompt and press Enter to check the currently installed Java version.

3. Locate the desired Java version’s installation directory on your computer.

4. In Command Prompt, type the following command to change the Java version:
«`
set PATH=«C:\path\to\desired\java\version\bin»;%PATH%
«`
Replace «C:\path\to\desired\java\version\bin» with the actual path to the desired Java version’s installation directory.

5. Now, type «java -version» again to verify that the Java version has been successfully changed.

Changing the Java version on Windows 10 can seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually quite straightforward. By following a few simple steps, you can switch to the desired Java version without any hassle. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step. Whether you’re a developer needing a specific version or just someone looking to update, this tutorial will have you up and running in no time.

In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to change the default Java version on your Windows 10 machine. This process involves downloading the desired version, installing it, and then updating system environment variables.

Step 1: Download the Desired Java Version

First, download the Java version you need from the official Oracle website or any other trusted source.

Make sure you choose the correct version for your system (32-bit or 64-bit). Save the installer to a location you can easily access.

Step 2: Install the Java Version

Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install the new Java version.

The installation process is straightforward. Just keep clicking «Next» and eventually «Finish.» Make a note of the installation directory.

Step 3: Open System Environment Variables

Press Win + S, type «Environment Variables,» and select «Edit the system environment variables.»

This will open the System Properties window. Click on the «Environment Variables…» button in the lower-right corner.

Step 4: Edit the JAVA_HOME Variable

In the Environment Variables window, click «New» under System variables. Enter JAVA_HOME as the variable name and the path to the new Java installation as the variable value.

This step sets the new Java version as the default Java for your system. Make sure the path is correct.

Step 5: Update the PATH Variable

Find the PATH variable in the System variables section and click «Edit.» Add %JAVA_HOME%bin to the list of paths.

This tells the system where to find the Java executable. Make sure it’s placed at the beginning of the list for priority.

Step 6: Verify the Java Version

Open Command Prompt and type java -version to verify that the new Java version is now the default.

If everything is set up correctly, you should see the new version number displayed. If not, double-check your environment variables.

After completing these steps, your system will use the new Java version by default. You can always switch back or change to another version using the same steps.

Tips for Changing Java Version in Windows 10

• Backup Your System: Always create a system restore point before making changes to system environment variables.
• Use Version Managers: Tools like jEnv can help manage multiple Java versions easily.
• Check Compatibility: Make sure the new Java version is compatible with your applications.
• Uninstall Old Versions: Remove older Java versions if you don’t need them to free up space.
• Environmental Variables: Double-check your environment variables to ensure they are typed correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is JAVA_HOME?

JAVA_HOME is an environment variable that points to the directory where Java is installed. It’s used by various applications to locate the Java runtime.

Can I have multiple Java versions on Windows 10?

Yes, you can install multiple Java versions, but you need to update the JAVA_HOME and PATH variables to switch between them.

How do I uninstall an old Java version?

You can uninstall an old Java version through the Control Panel under «Programs and Features.»

Why isn’t my new Java version recognized?

Ensure the new Java path is correctly set in the JAVA_HOME and PATH variables, and that they are placed at the beginning of the PATH list.

Do I need administrative rights to change Java versions?

Yes, you typically need administrative rights to modify system environment variables.

Summary

1. Download the desired Java version.
2. Install the Java version.
3. Open System Environment Variables.
4. Edit the JAVA_HOME variable.
5. Update the PATH variable.
6. Verify the Java version.

Conclusion

Changing the Java version in Windows 10 is a straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to detail. By following the steps outlined above, you can switch between different Java versions with ease. This is particularly useful for developers who need specific Java versions for different projects.

Remember, always double-check your environment variables to avoid any mistakes. Feel free to explore tools like version managers if you frequently switch between Java versions. Keep your system and projects running smoothly by staying up-to-date with the latest Java updates and best practices. Happy coding!

Java is a widely-used programming language that runs on a variety of platforms. Developers often need to switch between different Java versions for various projects, and with Windows 11, the ability to manage these versions has become more streamlined. Whether you’re a hobbyist, a student, or a professional developer, knowing how to change your Java version can save you from compatibility headaches.

In this guide, we will detail the steps necessary to change Java versions in Windows 11. We will cover the process of checking the installed Java versions, installing a new version, configuring environmental variables, and ensuring the correct version is in use.

Understanding Java Versions

Before diving into the technical steps, it’s essential to understand what Java versions are and why you might want to switch between them. Java has different versions, including:

1. Java Development Kit (JDK): This is what developers need to create Java applications.
2. Java Runtime Environment (JRE): This is necessary for running Java applications.
3. Java SE (Standard Edition): Contains the core libraries and tools.

The Java ecosystem evolves continuously, with new features, performance improvements, and security updates. Different projects may require specific Java versions, so you might find yourself needing to switch versions frequently.

Checking Installed Java Versions

To change the Java version on your Windows 11 system, the first step is to see what versions you currently have installed.

1. Open Command Prompt: Press Win + R, type cmd, and hit Enter.

2. Check Installed Versions: In the Command Prompt, type:

   java -version

   This command will display the currently active Java version on your system.

3. Check for JDK: You may also want to check for the installed JDK version by typing:

   javac -version

   Ensure both JAVA and JAVAC outputs are correct, as these will influence your development environment.

If you have multiple versions installed but are unsure of their installation paths, you can look for them in the Program Files directory, usually found under C:Program FilesJava.

Installing a New Java Version

If the required Java version is not installed on your system, you can download and install it easily.

1. Download JDK: Go to the official Oracle website or OpenJDK site, choose the version you need, and download it. For example:

   • Oracle JDK: Oracle Java Downloads
   • OpenJDK: OpenJDK

2. Run the Installer: Double-click the downloaded .exe file and follow the installation wizard to complete the installation. Make sure to note the installation directory, as you will need this later.

3. Verify the Installation: After installation, you can verify that the new version is installed successfully by running java -version again in Command Prompt.

Configuring Environmental Variables

Changing the Java version involves updating the environmental variables in Windows. This will allow you to specify which version of Java should be used system-wide.

1. Open System Properties:

   • Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
   • Type sysdm.cpl and press Enter. This will open the System Properties window.

2. Go to Environment Variables:

   • Click on the Advanced tab.
   • At the bottom, click on Environment Variables.

3. Find JAVA_HOME:

   • In the Environment Variables window, under System variables (the bottom section), check if there is a variable named JAVA_HOME.
   • If it exists, click on it and then click Edit. If it doesn’t exist, click on New... to create it.

4. Set JAVA_HOME:

   • Set the variable name as JAVA_HOME.
   • For the variable value, enter the path of the JDK installation directory (e.g., C:Program FilesJavajdk-17).

5. Updating the Path Variable:

   • Now, you need to update the Path variable.
   • In the same Environment Variables window, find the Path variable in the System variables section and click Edit.
   • In the Edit Environment Variable window, click New and add the path to the JDK’s bin folder (e.g., C:Program FilesJavajdk-17bin).
   • Click OK to close all dialog boxes.

Validating the Java Version Change

After changing the environment variables, you will want to verify that your system recognizes the new Java version.

1. Reopen Command Prompt: Close any open Command Prompt windows and open a new one, as changes will not reflect in already opened terminals.

2. Check Java Version: Again, type:

   java -version

   This should now display the version you installed and configured in your environment variables.

3. Test Java Compiler: You can also check if the new version of javac is active by running:

   javac -version

   Both outputs should match the version you installed.

Switching Between Multiple Java Versions

If you have multiple versions of Java on your machine, you can switch between them using the same method outlined above. However, it’s more practical to set the environment variables for temporary use via command line.

Temporarily Changing the Java Version

You can temporarily change the Java version for the duration of your command prompt session without modifying the system environment variables. Here’s how:

1. Open Command Prompt.
2. Set JAVA_HOME locally:

   set JAVA_HOME=C:Program FilesJavajdk-11

3. Add to Path:

   set PATH=%JAVA_HOME%bin;%PATH%

Now, if you check java -version, it should reflect the version of JDK 11 for this session.

Using Java Version Managers

For those frequently switching between Java versions, consider using a Java Version Manager. A popular tool is SDKMAN!, which allows you to manage multiple versions with ease.

1. Installing SDKMAN!:

   • Open a terminal and use the following command to install it:

     curl -s "https://get.sdkman.io" | bash

2. Follow the Instructions: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

3. Install Java Versions: After installation, use SDKMAN! to install specific versions:

   sdk install java 11.0.11-open
   sdk install java 17.0.0-open

4. Switch Versions: You can switch versions easily:

   sdk use java 11.0.11-open

This method provides a lot of flexibility without the need for manual updates to environment variables.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Switching Java versions can sometimes lead to various issues. Here are some common problems and how to solve them:

• JAVA_HOME Not Set Properly: Ensure that the JAVA_HOME path points to the correct JDK installation directory. Recheck any typos or incorrect paths.

• Command Not Recognized: If you receive an error that java or javac is not recognized, it’s likely due to the PATH variable not being set correctly. Double-check the bin folder path.

• Version Conflicts: If you switch versions and something still doesn’t work, ensure that there are no leftover cache or configurations that could cause conflicts. Deleting old versions that are no longer needed can help.

• Reboot Your System: If everything appears set up correctly but you’re still encountering issues, a simple restart of your system may solve environmental variable refresh problems.

Conclusion

Changing the Java version in Windows 11 isn’t overly complicated, but it requires careful attention to detail, especially when managing the environment variables. By following the steps listed above, you can ensure a smooth transition between various Java versions, whether for development or runtime requirements. Tools like SDKMAN! can further simplify the management process, allowing you to focus on development rather than configuration.

As Java continues to evolve, staying agile with version management is essential for developers. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the procedures and tools available, and you’ll find that switching Java versions becomes a straightforward task that augments your development workflow. Happy coding!