How to Fix the “Unable to Access Jarfile” Error When Trying to Open a JAR Package

If you have recently tried to open a JAR package file, only to receive the error, “unable to access Jarfile,” this simply means that your computer either doesn’t have the right software to open the file, or you have the wrong file path. Other common reasons for getting this error is if you have an outdated version of Java, your computer is infected with malware, or the default program for opening your JAR files isn’t set correctly. Before we jump into the solutions for this, let’s take a look at what JAR is.

Understanding JAR Package Files

Java Archive or JAR is a package file format based on ZIP architecture. It is used to group together multiple Java class files, their metadata, and any resources these files need to run into one single package. The purpose of doing this is to then distribute the grouped files as needed for the running of applications and programs. In order to run the executable file in a JAR package, you must have the latest Java Run-Time Environment installed.

If you are getting the error, “unable to access Jarfile” it means that you are encountering one of the following problems:

• Your system has malware that is either preventing the Jarfile package to open.
• The Jarfile package is corrupted from malware.
• You do not have the latest Java Run-Time Environment installed.
• The default program for accessing JAR files isn’t set.
• The file path for the executable Jarfile package is incorrect.

The “unable to access Jarfile” error is quite a common one since there are many popular programs that use Java as their programming language. For instance, Netflix uses it along with Python for applications in its back-end, while Spotify uses it to stabilize data transfer, and Minecraft uses it for its launcher. Other popular programs and services that use Java include: Uber, Amazon, LinkedIn, Google, and Android OS.

7 Ways to Fix the “Unable to Access Jarfile” Error

1. Update Your Java to the Latest Version

The most likely reason that you are getting the, “unable to access Jarfile” error is due to an outdated version of Java. Unfortunately, outdated versions of Java Run-Time Environment are prone to security risks and loopholes, so keeping it updated is highly recommended regardless of whether you are getting the above error.

1. In your computer’s search menu, type in “Control Panel”.
2. In the control panel window, choose “uninstall a program” under programs.

3. In the list of programs, scroll until you see Java. Or use the search program box in the top right-hand corner of the window.
4. Take a look at the version number and see if it matches the latest release.
5. If it doesn’t, uninstall the program by right-clicking on it.

6. Choose “yes” when prompted.
7. From the official Java website, download the latest version.
8. Once downloaded, use the setup wizard to install Java.

Now, re-try opening your JAR package to see if the problem is fixed.

2. Make Java the Default Program for Opening JAR Packages

If you are still getting the “unable to access Jarfile” error after updating your Java Run-Time Environment to the latest version, then you may not have Java set as the default program to use for opening JAR packages.

1. In your computer’s taskbar, open File Explorer.
2. Find the folder that contains your JAR package.
3. Right-click on the folder and choose “open,” and then Java.
4. If Java is not listed, select “choose another app”.

5. In the window that pops up, choose Java from the list. If it is not there, choose the “look for another app on this PC” option.
6. Browse your computer for Java and find the program. Select it and hit the “open” option.
7. A prompt window may open. If it does, choose “okay” and “open”.
8. Double-click on your JAR package executable to open.

When browsing for Java on your computer in step 6, the most common place for it to be is in Program Files (x86)/Java/Java <Version>/Bin/Java.exe. Keep in mind that Java is usually installed to the default hard drive disk where your operating system is, unless you do a custom installation path. So, keep this in mind when trying to find Java on your computer.

3. Set Java as a Default Association Permanently

If you use a lot of programs or applications that use the Java Run-Time Environment, it is recommended that you set Java as a default association permanently in your computer, so that any JAR packages or files are automatically opened by Java.

1. Press the Windows key and “I” on your keyboard to open Settings. Alternatively, type “settings” into your computer’s search menu.
2. Click into the “apps” option in the Settings window.

3. Choose “default apps” in the left-hand sidebar.
4. Scroll until you see, “choose default apps by file type” and click it.
5. Now, look for .jar in the list and click on “Choose a default” next to it.
6. Find the Java Platform Program (Java Run-Time Environment) on your computer.
7. Save the changes and exit.

Now restart your computer for the changes to take effect and see if you can open your JAR package without the, “unable to access Jarfile” error.

4. Check for Malware to Eliminate Infections Causing Trouble

If you are still getting the “unable to access Jarfile” error, it may be from malicious malware. A virus can easily exploit your registry and modify it to make JAR packages unusable. It is highly recommended that you run a thorough scan of your entire computer to look for malware. If you find some, remove it and uninstall Java. Repeat fix 1 in this list to reinstall.

5. Configure Hidden Files/Folders/Drives to Show

While not as common, sometimes hidden files, folders, and drives can cause the “unable to access Jarfile” error.

1. In your computer’s taskbar, open File Explorer.
2. At the top of the window, click on the “View tab”.

3. Now click on the “Options” button to the far right.
4. In the new window that opens, click on the “View tab” again.
5. In the list, choose the “Show hidden files, folders, and drives” option.
6. Hit Apply and then hit OK.

6. Repair Your Java Programs with Jarfix.

If you are using programs that launch with Java and they are not responding to you, no matter how many times you try to open the application, then it may be time to repair your JAR associations. To do this, simply download Jarfix, a lightweight program that fixes hijacked JAR associations, and run it.

7. Check the Documentation If You Are a Developer

If you are working in Java as a developer and come across the “unable to access Jarfile” error, it is likely that there is a minor mistake within the coding. It is recommended that you go back through and re-read to make sure that you have the right file path and the correct parameters for the code to work. Depending on what utility you are using to open and run your JAR packages, you may need to go back through and re-read the documentation on how to get it functioning properly.

Wrapping It Up

In most cases, the “unable to access Jarfile ” error will be solved by updating your Java Run-Time Environment to the latest version, but if it doesn’t solve the problem, please do try out the other methods on this list. Let us know in the comments below if we were able to help you!