Problems with java and downloading

I am not able to navigate some websites that use java. for instance, i want to be able to play the games at candystand.com, and any links that are java operated do not work, and of course, the games do not work. furthermore, and more important problem, is that i am not permitted to download from the internet. whenever i click on a download i get a popup that says my security settings will not permit downloading. however, when i go to my internet security settings, they will not allow me to lower them, saying "the recommended security zone is medium, u have selected a security zone lower than this" and will not let me change them. i am the administrator on the comp. any help?

Have you changed the settings from default, if you have then press the default button to revert everything.
Or
Download this from another computer or order it:
http://www.mozilla.org/products/firefox/

Then this:
http://www.java.com/en/download/manual.jsp

Then stop using IE unless it's for updates or IE required sites.