Updating the Liberty Java runtime environment or software development kit
Updating to the latest Java™ version ensures that your Liberty environment receives new features and security fixes.
About this task
Liberty can run with any compliant Java runtime environment (JRE) or Java software development kit (SDK). This flexibility means that you have several options for
installing the JRE or Java SDK:
Note:
Liberty on the IBM i platform uses the
system-wide version of Java. To install Java on IBM i, follow
these guidelines:
- Install the minimum supported Java level or later.
- Although you can install WebSphere® Liberty from a ZIP file on IBM i, you cannot install Java from a ZIP file on IBM i.
- Ensure that you installed the latest Java group PTF. For more information, see Java products and options on IBM i
Important: Removal notices were issued for Java SE 8 and 11, which means that support for these Java versions is removed as of the fix pack that is specified in Removal notices. After support is removed, the Liberty kernel is recompiled and can no longer
run with the removed Java version.
Important:
Liberty on z/OS supports Java SE 8.
As of version 22.0.0.9, Liberty on z/OS supports Java SE 11.
As of version 23.0.0.12, Liberty on z/OS supports Java SE 17.
When support ends for your Java SE version, you must upgrade to a supported version.- The Liberty end of support date for Java SE 8 is October 2026, fix pack 26.0.0.10.
- The Liberty end of support date for Java SE 11 is October 2026, 26.0.0.10.
- The Liberty end of support date for Java SE 17 is October 2027, 27.0.0.10.