Did we always have to register to download the Java 5 JDK, or is this new Oracle fun?
download, java, java-5
Solution
Java 5 has passed its sell-by date on October 30, 2009. That means that support is only available as paid business support, which of course requires registration.
You shouldn't really be using Java 5 anymore, unless you're committed to some large, complex installation, in which case you should seriously consider that paid business support - I guess the automatic registration page is intended to drive home that point.
Edit: You can still download Java 5 without registering via the technology archive. (Not any more, it also requires login now.)
Problem
I could swear that just a couple of months ago I downloaded a copy of the Java 1.5 SE JDK and I did not have to give them information on my first born. Today, I had to go through the register-and-we-will-send-you-a-link-someday dance. I have not received the link yet, so I thought I would ask about it here. - What is special about the Java 5 JDK? I can get Java 6 just by clicking, is this a stick to get us to migrate to Java 6? - Am I just not remembering doing this before? - What marketing genius thought this would be a value add for Java? "If we make them sweat for the JDK they won't just delete it willy-nilly the next time?" - Does everyone picture the people designing systems like this as mustache twirling Snidely Whiplash clones like I do? - Did I just miss the link for the Secret Squirrel route to the download page? Finally, I am in the U.S. so I should not have to worry about export restrictions. Any thoughts? P.S. Did I mention I am trying to get the Java 5 JDK ;-)