Do I need to update Java 6 to Java 7

[LCPete]

I've got avast anti virus and its recommending me to update Java 6 to Java 7

Edit I have had a look on Google And its ok to do

Have uninstalled version 6 and installed 7
its just that the message that appeared = However, you need to pay attention as possible bad side effects like corrupt programs may appear ! had me a little concerned

I have copied and pasted the full message below

Unfortunately Java 7 installer does not uninstall Java 6, which persists installed afterwards and it might be out of date and vulnerable. Without uninstalling Java 6 or updating it to the last supported version Java SE Runtime Environment 6u45 (update 45) the Software Updater in avast! 8.x will continue reporting the product as outdated. We could remove Java 6 from the list of supported products but this would leave our users vulnerable without any notice. Also we do not want to uninstall Java 6 via Software Updater as this might lead to unpredictable results, because some programs may depend on Java 6.

Preferred Solution - Highly Recommended
If you want to stay protected against vulnerabilities, we recommend to uninstall obsolete Java 6 and upgrade to Java 7. This it's also recommended by Oracle. However, you need to pay attention as possible bad side effects like corrupt programs may appear

 

[neil_g]

Technically yes you should as there are tonnes of java exploits out there so it's best to keep it up to date where possible.

However, and i think this is what that message is getting at, some java based apps may stop working if they're not intended to work on that version.

Ds colour labs for example, a while back a java update stopped their client print upload software working. Fortunately reinstalling the older version in parallel worked until they resolved the issue.

So yes, update. But be aware some things may stop working.

 

[mid_gen]

Enough things use it to need Java 6 and 7 installed. Just keep it disabled or at the least set to prompt before running, and only run it on reputable sites\apps. Most places have moved off it now, but not Hong Kong inland revenue

 

[LCPete]

Ahh ok thanks guys i was a bit concerned when I saw the message but now realise what java does
now only browse a few sites on my main pc and do random searching on my phone