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Java and JavaScript
The logos and graphics that you see spinning and jumping on the World Wide Web aren�t just excited to be downloaded to your browser. They�re the lively critters written in the Java language and inserted into Web documents.

Java is the programming language from Sun Microsystems that promises to someday run on any operating system. It�s taken the Web by storm because, like HTML, the Java applet programs can run through browsers, regardless of the computer platform. Both Netscape Navigator and Microsoft Internet Explorer support Java.

The Java Jive: Security with Java


Java is hot, and like the caffeinated drink, it�s full of life. In other words, it�s a live-wire program that runs when you download a Web page with Java applets or JavaScript programs in it. Sometimes life brings sickness and unhealth. With Java programs, it would be easy for someone to infect your computer by hiding a virus inside the program.

Java can also make your CPU processor grind and moan as it runs the mini-animation program over and over. If you don�t have a high-end computer, you might consider turning off Java and JavaScript support.

In Netscape, an option in the Security Preferences dialog box makes it a snap for you to turn off Java.