I administer over 300 computers at a school. I need to update Java regularly to keep applications some of our server side applications running. Google toolbar slows many of the dinosaur aged systems I can't afford to replace. Why can't Sun just include a switch to deselect Google when running the executable offline in silent mode. I have not been able to find any way to opt out of the installation when running it from a script.

Stop your whinning and uncheck it. Better yet totally remove Java from your computer!

Well, as for multiples, sounds like an install problem. I have a machine that I have multiple copies of JDK and JRE installed over time (and some not removed for testing purposes) and only one updater runs.
As for the opt out by default being what SHOULD be required - I agree wholeheartedly.

Even working for Sun.. I totally agree an detest this stupidness

I hate to say it, but this functionality has been nothing new. This was introduced sometime in the later updates of the 1.5 JRE. This is nothing new for the industry either, install the latest version of flash and you'll find the same thing.

I don't care who does it: Microsoft, Sun, Apple, Google, Real, Adobe, Roxio.
Any software company that presumes to install background processes on my machine without explicitly begging for my permission earns my animosity, resentment and cynicism. Bastard coated bastards with bastard filling, they are.
Mozilla, you earn my highest respect and kudos for the class and elegance by which you handle the update process.