Install Java on Windows 10
Step by Step Instructions

Install Java on Windows 10

This tutorial will walk you through the steps for installation of Java on Windows 10.

Step 1: Download the Java JDK

Visit the official Oracle website: Download Java JDK.

Choose the appropriate version for your system — usually "Windows x64 Installer". Click "Download" and accept the license agreement if prompted.

Step 2: Run the Installer

Locate the downloaded .exe file and double-click to run it. The installation wizard will open.

  • Click “Next” on the welcome screen.
  • Choose an installation path (or leave the default).
  • Click “Next” again to start the installation.
  • Once the installation finishes, click “Close”.

Step 3: Set Environment Variables

To run Java from the command line, you’ll need to set the JAVA_HOME and PATH environment variables.

Set JAVA_HOME

  1. Open Control Panel → System and Security → System.
  2. Click on Advanced system settings.
  3. In the System Properties window, click on Environment Variables.
  4. Under “System Variables”, click New:
    • Variable name: JAVA_HOME
    • Variable value: Path to your JDK folder, e.g., C:\Program Files\Java\jdk-17

Update PATH Variable

  1. Still in Environment Variables, find the Path variable under "System Variables". Click Edit.
  2. Click New and add: %JAVA_HOME%\bin
  3. Click OK on all dialogs to save and exit.

Step 4: Verify Installation

Open Command Prompt and type:

java -version
java version "17.0.1"  
Java(TM) SE Runtime Environment (build 17.0.1+12)  
Java HotSpot(TM) 64-Bit Server VM (build 17.0.1+12, mixed mode)

If you see a version message like above, your installation was successful!

Step 5: Compile and Run a Java Program

Let’s try a sample program to make sure everything is working fine.

Write the Program

Open Notepad and paste the following:

public class HelloWorld {
  public static void main(String[] args) {
    System.out.println("Java is installed and working!");
  }
}

Save it as HelloWorld.java in a folder of your choice.

Compile the Program

cd path\to\your\file
javac HelloWorld.java

If no error appears, it means the compilation is successful. A file named HelloWorld.class should be created.

Run the Program

java HelloWorld
Java is installed and working!

Common Issues and Fixes

  • 'javac' is not recognized: Check that %JAVA_HOME%\bin is correctly added to the PATH variable.
  • Wrong version showing: You may have multiple Java versions. Check your system PATH for older entries and remove them.

Conclusion

You’ve successfully installed Java on Windows 10 and run your first program!