Did we always have to register to download the Java 5 JDK, or is this new Oracle fun?

Question

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 ;-)

Answer 1

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.)

Answer 2

Go here. Click "Download" (left). Then click Skip this Step (it's tiny on the bottom of the new widget that appears when you click "Download").

EDIT: For JDK 5, go here, click "Download" and then just click Continue to Download without entering anything in those fields.