Question : Java issues with IE8, also can't install Firefox or Chrome

I have a new Win7 home computer which came pre-installed with IE8, which I dont like at all.  I tried going to a site & got a message to enable Java.  I went thru some other posts & changed some settings within IE8 from tools --> option --> security with no luck.

I can't install IE7 because I get a message it's not compatible.  I also can't install Firefox or Chrome.  I can get to the sites, but not download the files.

Also, gmail will only run in basic html mode.  When I try to switch to standard view, it freezes up.

Answer : Java issues with IE8, also can't install Firefox or Chrome

The machine. Is it fresh out of the box or a custom built machine?
If there is relatively no user data on the machine, an option would be to install Win 7 fresh on it again-backing up data firstly.

When you try do download anything what happens?Any message?