Alabama's Public Liberal Arts University

Computer Services

Step 3:
Internet Connectivity Software
and the New Daylight Saving Time Law

 

Synopsis:
Most software that you use on the Internet (Internet Explorer, Safari, etc.) will not be affected by the change in the DST law.  However, there is one major exception, and it's a program you may not be aware is installed on your computer.

This program is called Java Runtime Environment, or JRE. JRE is software created Sun Microsystems that is used to run any application created with their Java programming language.  Typically, it runs behind the scenes and most people don't know (or care) that it's installed on their computers.  The most common use of JRE is as a web browser plug-in but it can be found in other areas as well.

JRE does its own date and time calculations.  As a result, it must be updated to accommodate the new DST laws independently of the computer's operating system.  Furthermore, any given computer could have multiple versions of JRE installed and each version will require a separate update.
 

Disclaimer:
The potential exists that older applications and websites that use JRE won't be compatible with newer JRE versions.  If you use a JRE-dependent software product or visit a specific JRE-dependent web site as a core function of your daily work, contact your vendor before applying any JRE updates.
 

Procedure:

Follow these links for information about updating JRE on your computer.