Windows Cannot Find Javaw.exe [Solved]

Fix the Windows cannot find javaw.exe using the solutions below

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Fix Windows cannot find javaw.exe

Javaw.exe is a process that launches Java programs (jar files included). However, a Windows cannot find javaw.exe error message can pop up when you try to launch Java software.

The full error message states: Windows cannot find javaw.exe. Make sure you typed the name correctly, and then try again. These are some of the best fixes for that error message.

In essence, the javaw.exe command is the same as java.exe, but javaw.exe does not have an associated console window. Basically, it’s a non-essential system process that is opened by other programs. We wouldn’t recommend ending or deleting it unless it causes problems.

What can I do if javaw.exe is missing on Windows 10?

1. Add the Javaw.exe Path to the Environment Variable Path

  1. Press the Windows key + R to launch Run.
  2. Input sysdm.cpl in Run and click OK to open the window shown directly below.
  3. Select the Advanced tab.
  4. Press the Environment Variables button to open the window in the snapshot below.
  5. Click the New button under System variables to open a New System Variable window.
  6. Enter Path in the Variable name text box.
  7. Then, input the exact path of your javaw.exe file. The default javaw.exe path would be something like C:Program files(x86)javajre7bin or C:Program files(x86)javajre8bin on 64-bit Windows platforms.
  8. If you’re not sure what path to enter, press the Windows key + Q hotkey to open Cortana. Then enter java in the search box.
  9. Right-click javaw and select Open file location.
  10. Thereafter, File Explorer will open the folder that includes javaw.exe. Enter the folder path open in File Explorer into the Variable value text box on the New System Variable window.
  11. Press the OK button on the New System Variable window.
  12. Click OK on the Environment Variables window.

The javaw.exe error often arises because Windows can’t find the Java program. So, adding the exact javaw.exe path to system variables often fixes the Windows cannot find javaw.exe error.

Follow the guidelines above to add a new javaw.exe system variable path.

2. Scan for malware

If you already use ESET HOME Security Essential, open the main window and follow these simple steps:


1. Select Computer scan from the ribbon on the left.
2.  Click on the Scan your computer button and wait for the process to complete.
3. When the scan is finished, you will get a report showing the number of scanned, infected, and cleaned objects.

Alternatively, if you do not have ESET HOME Security Essential on your computer, you can still do a full computer scan with its free scanner. You can download it for free and it will thoroughly scan your computer just as we showed in the steps below. You can only run this utility once, but it can be a quick fix if you don’t use an antivirus already.

We recommend ESET HOME Security Essential because it uses multi-layered protection while being very lightweight. This type of technology ensures faster detection rates so there are higher chances that threats will be blocked or removed before they get a chance to impact your system.

ESET HOME Security Essential

Guard your devices with advanced multi-layered protection that keeps all threats at bay.
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3. Reinstall Java

  1. Reinstalling Java might also fix the javaw.exe error for users with antiquated Java versions. To reinstall Java, enter appwiz.cpl in Run and click OK.
  2. Select Java and click Uninstall.
  3. Select the Yes option on the dialog box that opens.
  4. Restart Windows after uninstalling Java.
  5. Download Java installer.
  6. Click the Java installer file to open the setup window below.
  7. Press the Install button on that window.

Those are three resolutions that will probably resolve the Windows cannot find javaw.exe error for most users. You may then open your Java program with the javaw.exe error fixed.

Don’t hesitate to follow the topic on our website and check out this Java section too.

If you want to keep up with everything related to this topic, check out our Java section. You can find additional recommendations, fixes, and also.

Solving glitches is our specialty, so bookmark our Windows 10 Errors Hub if you need assistance with other PC-related problems.

Since your goal is to get this result as quickly as possible, apply the same solutions when dealing with the following:

  • javaw.exe not found – Users say they keep seeing the same message on their computer. Since it cannot find a working Java installation, we can only recommend reinstalling it.
  • Windows cannot find javaw.exe ASDM—Sometimes, users may not even get the ASDM Launcher login box. If you’re not a stranger to this error, quickly scanning your device is a wise move.

Do you still have problems with jawaw.exe? Let us know in the comments section below.

More about the topics: Java

Matthew Adams

Matthew Adams Shield

Windows Hardware Expert

Matthew is a freelancer who has produced a variety of articles on various topics related to technology. His main focus is the Windows OS and all the things surrounding it. He is passionate about the tech world, always staying up-to-date with the latest and greatest. With an analytical view, he likes problem-solving, focusing on errors and their causes. In his free time, he likes to read and write about history and tries to always develop new skills.