The Alternatives to Flash and Java

This is the last article in our small Flash Player and Java series. Two tools that have caused headaches for some users. In this article, we will look at alternatives to these two programs as well as new and modern technologies and developments that are expected to replace Java and Flash in the future.

Farewell to Adobe's Flash Player

Not only the negative headlines caused by security vulnerabilities that threaten operating systems are pushing users towards modern alternatives. Nowadays, the largest browsers also steer users away from Flash and require a shift in thinking.

It must be noted upfront that there is currently no one-to-one alternative for the Flash Player in the extent that the Flash Player currently offers. However, there are trends in the direction an alternative solution could develop.

HTML5 offers an alternative

The trend is currently moving strongly towards HTML5. Many modern websites already implement their videos or dynamic files with the HTML5 solution.

HTML5 stands for Hypertext Markup Language and is the 5th specification of the popular language. The special feature of HTML5 is the new capabilities in video, audio, and dynamic multi-dimensional graphics. All current web browsers support HTML5. No additional browser extensions are needed. Additionally, HTML5 is no longer limited to the desktop but also runs smoothly on all mobile devices. And another plus for HTML5: It is resource-efficient, consumes less computing power, and is safer than the Flash Player.

Fig.: HTML5 logo

Well-known sites like YouTube or Netflix manage without it. Some sites, such as MyVideo, still operate on two tracks: Flash is used on the desktop version (as far as the browser supports it), while the mobile version uses HTML5 instead.

Adobe itself announced some years ago the decision to prefer HTML5 over the further development of Flash.

Mozilla's Shumway aims to be the successor of Flash Player

For several years, Mozilla has been experimenting with its own Flash Player. This player is written in JavaScript. Currently, this player is integrated into the Firefox browser for special product tours or customer reviews on amazon.com. In the future, Mozilla developers aim to enhance compatibility. Additional tests are available through a Firefox add-on.

The mishap with Oracle's Java

Just before Christmas, there was a major misstep in the security updates for Java:

The update only replaced the current version each time. Older versions were simply ignored and remained on users' devices, which poses a security risk. Following an investigation by the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Oracle is obligated to highlight updates online and in social networks, which should actually be a given. Every security update of Java increasingly erodes trust in the software.

No alternatives for Java in sight

The functions provided by Oracle's Java aren't easily replaced by third-party software. Although, according to w3Techs, very few sites or software require the Java software, those programs and websites that do rely on Java are usually heavily frequented. A prominent example of a program that cannot do without Java is the finance administration's service portal: Elster Online. The well-known OpenOffice software also requires a Java installation to be fully functional.

It would actually be better to completely uninstall Java from the computer. This way, you can determine if an application you use regularly requires Java. Should a notice indicate that Java is needed to complete the software's functionality, then reinstall it and uninstall it again after use. This is a very cumbersome process and should only be done if the program is not needed daily. Oracle frequently releases security patches in a very tight cycle. This keeps you on the safe side.

An alternative would be to adjust the browser accordingly. If you regularly visit websites that require Java, do not use your standard browser for this site; instead, download a second browser (Chrome, Firefox, Internet Explorer, or Microsoft Edge) and add an extension for Java. Use this browser only for your visit to the site so your standard browser remains Java-free.

This way, you can minimize precautions and risks.

Currently, many developers are still working on finding alternatives. HTML5 already stands out as one of the big winners likely to take Flash's place.

What we can do for you

Do you still have Flash elements on your website and need professional help integrating dynamic HTML5 elements? Contact the internetwarriors. Our web developers are happy to assist you.