Kronos, Java, and Web Browser Security

Chris Wilkins

What is Java?

• 3rd party software installed on PCs (also a programming language)

• It is the underlying technology that powers modern programs including utilities, games, and business applications

• Java runs on more than 850 million personal computers and on billions of devices worldwide

Java Issues

• Java is used by Kronos, Nolij, and other UGA systems

• Kronos, and other systems, require a specific version of Java (Java 6 vs. Java 7)

• Oracle releases frequent updates to Java due to security issues

• Kronos and other systems do not release updates as frequently

Java Issues

• UGA’s current Kronos system only supports Java 6

• Oracle will stop supporting Java 6 this month• UGA is currently upgrading to the latest

version of Kronos• The new version of Kronos supports Java 7

After the Kronos Upgrade

• After the Kronos upgrade later this month, all of these Java issues will go away, right?– Unfortunately, no. – One of the bigger Java issues will go away (Java 6

vs. Java 7)– However, Java continues to make international

headlines with newly discovered security issues– This will continue, requiring frequent Java updates

to your PC

Recommendations

• If possible, do not use the Kronos Java interface• Kronos offers a non-Java user interface• This interface works well for employees and

supervisors– Add punches, leave, & comments– Approve/Signoff time cards– For advanced Kronos access, unit payroll employees

must use the Java user interface (create new records, account change, hourly rate change, etc.)

Questions?

• Chris Wilkins• cwilkins@uga.edu• 706-542-8190