November 21, 2009
http://www.java.com/download/help/5000021000.xml

How do I disable the Java Icon in the Windows System Tray?

This article applies to:
  • Platform(s): Windows 98 ,  Windows ME ,  Windows 2000 ,  Windows XP ,  Windows 2003
  • Browser(s): All Browsers
  • Java version(s): 1.5.0
A Java icon is shown in the system tray whenever an applet or application written with Java technology is running. The Java icon provides easy and quick access to the Java Control Panel and the Java Console. In addition, user can easily find information about the JRE version. The icon is removed from the system tray at the completion of the applet or application execution.
A java icon is in the system tray.

You can disable the Java Icon in the System Try through the Java Control Panel by following these instructions:
  1. Click Start
  2. Select Settings
  3. Select Control Panel
  4. Double click the Java icon. The Java Control Panel opens.
  5. Click on the Advanced tab.
  6. Click on the + sign next to the Miscellaneous option
  7. Place Java Item in system tray option is checked by default. Uncheck the option to disable the Java icon in the system tray
  8. Click on Apply button
  9. Click on OK button
Uncheck the option to disable the Java icon in the system tray