Category Archives: Java Runtime

The difference between Java Runtime Environment (JRE) CPU and PSU releases

Currently Oracle did release a Java Runtime Environment (JRE) 8u66 PSU version on java.com. This is unusal and confusing the world because Oracle recommends to the public to use CPU releases and not PSU releases. But what does that mean? Here a short overview about CPU and PSU releases.

CPU Release – Critical Patch Updates
The subsequent CPU release will contain all of the fixes from the current PSU.
Oracle recommends to public users to upgrade to the latest CPU release.

PSU Release – Patch Set Update
Normaly released on Oracle Technology Network (OTN) and not for public.
Java SE Patch Set Updates (PSU) contain all of fixes in the corresponding CPU release, as well as additional non-critical fixes. Java PSU releases should only be used if you are being impacted by one of the additional bugs fixed in that version.

First PSU will be released then CPU will follow.

More details about PSU and CPU releases can be found here
http://www.oracle.com/technetwork/java/javase/cpu-psu-explained-2331472.html

A list of current JRE releases can be found here
https://www.java.com/en/download/faq/release_dates.xml

OTN – Oracle Technology Network
Is the Oracle developer community web site http://www.oracle.com/technetwork

BPR Bundled Patch Release
Don’t mess up with BPR and public releases. These are only available for Java Development Kit (JDK).
JDK BPR are only available as commercial offerings to Oracle customers.