I don't know whose bright idea it was to give two different programming technologies such similar names, but they should be spanked!
javascript (the 'j' can be lowercase) is a fairly straightforward non-proprietary scripting language that is run by a browser such as Internet Explorer, Firefox or Opera.
Java is a proprietary programming language made by Sun Microsystems, that runs independantly of browsers, but is often seen running within a browser by means of a special Java plugin module.
The two are different in the way they work and in what they can do. Javascript is best for simple, text-based tasks. Java can be used for complex programming, and is much better at graphical stuff than javascript.
It helps to know the difference, because immediately we can see that in your case, downloading Java will not make the slightest bit of difference to your problem. You need to look for the javascript settings (Tools-->Internet Options-->Advanced, in Internet Explorer). Also, be aware that javascript may be disabled in all sorts of ways by any internet security software you have running. So try temporarily disabling that to see whether it's the cause of your problem.
Finally, try loading the web sites in a different browser entirely. After all, if you value your privacy and security you should be dropping IE like a hot potato. Firefox and Opera are both good choices, although Firefox is a little more standards compliant and would be my preference.
