I am using the latest and it works for me.
I would suggest a few things.
go to
www.java.com and use the option to check what version you have. Is it the latest?
remove all java from the pc, reboot and then re-install
If that does not work, then part of the settings in the registry are then corrupt. Look for a java remove tool on the web. e.g. remove all java from the pc, run java remove tool, reboot and then re-install
IanD