I need to install a Java runtime on server machines. The JRE package from Sun acts as if I'm running on a client machine — it installs WebStart, Auto Updating, probably browser hooks, and other stuff I don't need or want.
Is there some Java runtime distribution specifically designed for machines acting as servers?
EDIT: I need JavaSE, not JavaEE.
Best Answer
If you are looking for a minimal footprint that always gets the latest version, consider the on-line installer. See [http://weblogs.java.net/blog/stanleyh/archive/2005/05/deployment_unde_1.html][1]
If want you complete control, a static image can be used. However if there is something in your server application that relies on file associations, browser plug-in (especially network proxy config), exec search path, or other environment variables, then some scripting may be required to diddle the registry. Your server app probably doesn't need any of those, except maybe the network config when operating behind a proxy.