The Java Runtime Environment (JRE) is what you get when you download Java software. Java technology allows you to work and play in a secure computing environment.

Javaw.exe is an executable component integrated within the Oracle Java Runtime Environment (JRE). It is essential to run certain Java-based programs including JAR files without using a console window.

According to Oracle, the Server JRE doesn’t contain the Java browser plug-in, a frequent target for Web-based exploits, the auto-update component or the installer found in the regular JRE package.