Windows 7: Java/Applet windows in internet sessions and conection issues

Two problems

1. Irregardless of the browser I use most of the time when an applet window opens I lose my internet connection and the window closes. Any other open browser windows keep their connection and work normally.

2. Occasionally both Google Chrome and IE8 freezes up and I cannot close the browser window - even if an applet window was not active. I have to use the taskmanager to close the window. There is never a solution found.

I would appreciate any help.

SPEEDTEST.NET
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Upload: 0.48 Mb/s
Ping: 73ms

Manufacturer: HP
Model: HPE-270f
Processor: Intel Core i7 CPU 930 2.80 GHz
RAM: 8.00 GB
System type: 64-bit
Graphics: ATI – Radeon 5770
Monitors: HP 2159 & HP w2007
Mouse: Logitech M705 and Microsoft Model 1058
OS: Windows 7 Home Premium with a clean installation
Java: Version 6 Update 21 (build 1.6.0_21-b07)



Browsers:
IE8 Version: 8.0.7600.16385
Google Chrome Version: 5.0.375.125