This meme was passed along to me, but I’m unsure of the original source. It does reference an important and difficult issue we are going to struggle with for the near future.
We are at a frustrating time where BCeSIS is requiring us to use an older version of Java, but other tools are requiring newer versions. This is affecting both Apple and Windows machines. Apple and OS X 10.6+ have caused issues due to blocking of the older version of Java needed for BCeSIS. We do have an imperfect resolution to this. Reports of a recent system update for 10.6 fixing the Java issue are good, but don’t help us for users with 10.7 and 10.8. We’ll be using BCeSIS for likely the next one to two school years so it will be an ongoing struggle.
Yesterday we were told a Ministry web tool may have required a newer version of Java to run. We aren’t sure yet if that was Java asking for an update, or the Ministry tool requiring it.
So at this point, follow the meme’s advice. Don’t update Java, or run system updates that reference Java on Windows or Macs (with the exception of OS X 10.6 if Java isn’t currently working). This does create a vulnerability due to older versions of Java. Avoid the “risky click” where you are on an unknown website, or following links to places you aren’t sure about.
If something is not working, give us a call at the helpdesk at 250-263-6442 or put in a ticket at helpdesk.prn.bc.ca and we will help you out as soon as possible.