TU Today

Java users: reduction of installations on campus computers

The Office of Technology Services is working with technology personnel across the university to identify TU computers using Java, to evaluate the need for it, and then either remove Java, or in the limited cases where it’s needed, help procure a license or replace it with a free open-source product. This effort is expected to be completed by May 31, 2021. More about the project:

Why Java is being evaluated/removed: In 2019, Oracle Corporation announced they would be moving to a subscription-based license for Oracle Java. This presents significant security and budgetary concerns for the university because of the requirement to keep critical software updated and properly licensed.

Who is affected: All TU computers with Oracle Java installed, including software apps provided by third-parties using Java.

What to expect from this effort:

• Identification of TU computers with Java. OTS will work with campus technology staff to inventory and assess usage.
• Removal of Java where not required. OTS will work with impacted parties to remove Java from machines where it’s not required. Oracle Java is generally not required to run software distributed and supported by OTS. Preliminary investigation across campus indicates that in most cases, it’s not in active use and can be safely removed.
• Replacement of Java where required. In a small number of cases, an installation of Java is required for certain software to operate properly. OTS will work with owners to replace it with an open-source product or to provide guidance on procuring a license from Oracle.

Effective immediately, Oracle Java is no longer available in the TU Software Center.

Questions about this project can be directed to javaproject@towson.edu. Contact the OTS Faculty/Staff Help Center at 410-704-5151 if you have questions about using or installing Java on a university machine.

Categorised in: General

This post was written by Weldon, Jennifer