Clearing the Java Cache
Sometimes the Java Webstart mechanism that reads JNLP files does
not recognize that a new version of the software is
available. Webstart can be forced to reload the latest
version by clearing old versions from the cache. The
instructions to clear the cache are as follows.
- Linux or Mac
- Type into any terminal
javaws --clearcache
- Windows
- Using the command prompt
- At the windows Start Menu, type the word "cmd" and hit Enter.
In the command window that appears, type
javaws --clearcache
- Using the GUI
- At the windows Start Menu, type the word Java and select
"Configure Java" from the list of options that appears.
A small window titled "Java Control Panel" appears, with
several tabs.
On the "General" tab, under "Temporary Internet Files", click
"Settings...".
A smaller window appears, called "Temporary Files Settings".

Click "Delete Files...".
A smaller still window appears, called "Delete Files and
Applications".
There are three checkboxes.
Make sure "Cached Applications and Applets" is checked and hit "OK".
There will be a short delay while old downloads are removed
from the cache.
Then keep clicking "OK" to get rid of each of the new windows
created.