FIX: Java is not recognized as an internal or external command

by Tashreef Shareef

Windows & Software Expert

Tashreef Shareef is a software developer turned tech writer. He discovered his interest in technology after reading a tech magazine accidentally. Now he writes about everything tech from Windows to iOS and streaming services... Read more

Posted: Mar 30, 2020

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While trying to compile a Java program or running tools Activit BPM you may encounter the Java is not recognized as an internal or external command in Command Prompt error.

This error can occur due to multiple reasons including an incorrect path for java.exe file. Since this is a common Command Prompt error, the reasons can vary depending on the user.

If you are also experiencing this error, here are a couple of troubleshooting tips to help you resolve Java is not recognized as an internal or external command error in Windows 10.

How do I fix the unrecognized Java command error?

1. Change the system variable path

1. Press Windows Key + R to open Run.
2. Type control and click OK to open the Control Panel.
3. Search for Advanced System Settings.
4. Click on View advanced system settings option.
5. On the System Properties window, open the Advanced tab.
6. Click the Environment Variables button.
7. Under the System Variables section select Path.
8. Click the Edit button.
9. In Variable value editor, click New.
10. Enter the following path:
    • C:Program FilesJavajdk1.7.0_72bin
11. Click OK to save the changes.
12. Click OK for all the open windows.
13. Restart the command prompt and check for any improvements.

Notes:

• Make sure you use the right version of Java. You can find the right path by navigating to:
  • C:Program FilesJava.
• Once you have got the right version, add the bin directory to your path.
• Do not delete any other values in the Variable path editor.

You need the latest version of Java to stay efficient, so check out this article to get it.

2. Install a compatible Java version

If the issue persists, try installing the Java version that is compatible with your Windows OS.

For example, if you are using a 64-bit Windows 10, download and install the 64-bit version of Java. If you are using 32-bit Windows OS, install the 32-bit version of the program.

Several users have reported the issue to have resolved after installing the right edition of Java. Additionally, you can also install both the versions of Java to use either 32 bit or 64 bit depending on your use.

• Download Java latest version for Windows 10 [32bit / 64bit]

If you see a message telling you what version of Java you have installed, it means that you have it.

• Is Java free to use?

Java remains free for general-purpose computing usage and is among the best programming languages available.

The Java is not recognized as an internal or external command in Command Prompt error occurs if the environment variables are not configured correctly.

By adding the correct path to an environment variable, you can resolve the issue. If the error persists, try installing the compatible Java version.

If you know of any other solutions to this Java-related problem, leave us a message in the comments section below and we’ll update the article based on your feedback.