Blog

How to Fix the JNI Error Has Occurred on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

If you are trying to run a Java application on Windows 11 and encounter the “JNI Error Has Occurred” message, don’t worry. This error usually happens due to Java version mismatches or configuration issues. It can be fixed with some simple troubleshooting steps.

This guide will walk you through the process of resolving the JNI error in a clear and straightforward way. You won’t need to be a tech expert to follow along. Each step is explained in detail to make it easy.

By the end of this article, you should be able to run your Java program without seeing the JNI error again. Let’s get started with some quick notes before diving into the fixes.

Remember to follow the steps in order, from the easiest solutions to more advanced ones. This helps avoid unnecessary complications.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Checks

Before you begin troubleshooting, make sure you have the following:

  • Java Runtime Environment (JRE) or Java Development Kit (JDK) installed on your PC.
  • The version of Java matches the requirements of the program you are trying to run (32-bit or 64-bit).
  • Administrator access to your Windows 11 system to install or update software.

Checking these will save you time and avoid confusion later on.

Step 1: Verify Your Java Version

The JNI error often happens because the Java version on your computer is incompatible with the application. To check your Java version:

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type cmd and press Enter to open Command Prompt.
  3. In the Command Prompt window, type java -version and press Enter.

This command will show you the installed Java version. If you see an error or no version information, Java is either not installed or not properly configured.

Make sure the version matches the bit version (32-bit or 64-bit) of the Java application you want to run. If you are unsure, try to find this information from the application’s documentation or website.

Step 2: Install or Reinstall Java

If your Java version is missing or incorrect, you should install or reinstall Java. Follow these steps:

  1. Go to the official Java download page: Oracle Java Downloads
  2. Download the correct JRE or JDK version compatible with your system (32-bit or 64-bit).
  3. Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
  4. After installation, restart your computer.

Installing the correct Java version ensures your system can properly run Java applications and eliminates many JNI-related errors.

Step 3: Check Your System Environment Variables

Java programs rely on environment variables to find the Java installation path. Incorrect settings here can cause JNI errors.

To check and update environment variables:

  1. Right-click This PC on your desktop or File Explorer and select Properties.
  2. Click on Advanced system settings on the left panel.
  3. In the System Properties window, click Environment Variables.
  4. Under System variables, find the variable named JAVA_HOME.
  5. If JAVA_HOME does not exist, create it by clicking New. Set the value to the path where Java is installed, for example: C:Program FilesJavajdk-17.0.1.
  6. Find the Path variable, select it, and click Edit. Make sure the path %JAVA_HOME%bin is added here.
  7. Click OK to save all changes and close the windows.

Setting these variables correctly tells Windows where to find Java executables, which is necessary for running Java applications without errors.

Step 4: Use the Correct Java Version for Your Application

Sometimes you may have multiple Java versions installed. Your application might be trying to use the wrong version, causing the JNI error.

To fix this:

  • Uninstall older or unnecessary Java versions via Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
  • Make sure the default Java version (the one in your environment variables) matches your app’s requirement.
  • If your app needs 32-bit Java, install the 32-bit JRE even if you have 64-bit installed.

This ensures that the Java runtime used matches what the application expects.

Step 5: Reinstall the Application

If none of the above steps work, the problem might be with the Java application itself.

Try uninstalling and reinstalling the app carefully:

  1. Go to Settings > Apps and uninstall the Java application.
  2. Download the latest version of the application from its official website.
  3. Install it again, making sure to follow any special instructions related to Java versions.

Sometimes application files get corrupted or outdated, leading to JNI errors.

Alternative Method: Use Command Line to Run the Application

If you are comfortable with Command Prompt, try running your Java application directly via command line. This can help identify exactly where the error occurs.

Example command:

java -jar pathtoyourapplication.jar

This runs the Java application explicitly and can provide more detailed error messages that help with troubleshooting.

FAQs

What does the JNI error mean?

JNI stands for Java Native Interface. The error usually means there is a version mismatch or configuration problem between Java and your application.

Can I fix JNI errors by updating Windows?

Updating Windows can improve overall system stability but does not directly fix JNI errors. Focus on Java versions and environment variables first.

Do I need JDK or JRE?

Most users only need the JRE to run Java applications. Developers or users running Java programs that require compiling may need the JDK.

How do I know if my app needs 32-bit or 64-bit Java?

Check the app’s documentation or download page. If not available, try both versions starting with the 64-bit version for modern systems.

Will reinstalling Java delete my programs?

No. Reinstalling Java only affects the Java installation itself, not your other programs or files.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and still face the JNI error, consider these final options:

  • Check the application’s official support resources: Visit the app’s website or forums for specific guidance.
  • Use Java diagnostic tools: Tools like jvisualvm or jconsole can help advanced users analyze Java errors.
  • Contact technical support: Reach out to the software developer or a professional technician.
  • Reset Java completely: Uninstall all Java versions, delete leftover folders in Program Files, and reinstall fresh.

Conclusion

The “JNI Error Has Occurred” on Windows 11 is a common but fixable problem. Most of the time, it is caused by Java version conflicts or environment variable issues. By verifying your Java installation, updating environment variables, and making sure your application uses the correct Java version, you can resolve the issue quickly.

If these basic steps don’t work, reinstalling the application or seeking official support are good next steps. Remember to always download Java and software from trusted sources to avoid compatibility problems.

Following this guide carefully should get your Java applications running smoothly again on Windows 11.

Leave a Reply