For casual users, skipping JRE is fine. For power users, it’s essential.
If you’ve been ignoring the “JRE not found” message in OpenOffice’s Java settings panel, take five minutes to install it. You might discover features — like creating reports from databases or using advanced form controls — that you never knew you had.
Historically, the Windows version of Apache OpenOffice was built as a 32-bit application.
OpenOffice is primarily written in C++, but certain features rely on Java to function. Without a JRE installed and correctly configured, you won’t see error messages every five minutes — but you will notice gaps. jre for openoffice
The most common mistake users make is installing the wrong "architecture" of Java.
The is a set of software tools that allows Java applications to run on your operating system.
On Windows, Apache OpenOffice is a 32-bit application . Even if your computer and Windows version are 64-bit, OpenOffice must use a 32-bit JRE. A 64-bit JRE will not be recognized by OpenOffice and will result in a "JRE is defective" or "JRE not found" error. Recommended Versions: Java and Apache OpenOffice For casual users, skipping JRE is fine
OpenOffice, a popular open-source office software suite, relies on the Java Runtime Environment (JRE) to function properly. The JRE is necessary for running Java-based components and macros within OpenOffice.
If you encounter issues with the JRE and OpenOffice, try the following:
OpenOffice’s cousin, LibreOffice, has reduced Java dependency over time — but not eliminated it. Both suites still need Java for Base, wizards, and certain extensions. The difference: LibreOffice can sometimes fall back to alternative libraries for a few features, but Java remains recommended. You might discover features — like creating reports
If you switch from OpenOffice to LibreOffice hoping to escape Java entirely, you’ll be disappointed. The dependency is baked into the architecture of both.
Why does a classic office suite need Java? And do you really need to install it?