If your using Firefox version 2.0.0.8 on Windows Vista then you'll need to upgrade Firefox to 2.0.0.9.

https://bugzilla.mozilla.org/show_bug.cgi?id=400467

I actually had this problem and had to use Internet Explorer for the past few weeks.

On the bugzilla entry they propose a solution, it could be worth a try for those who are experiencing this bug:

* Right click Firefox icon and choose "Run as administrator"
* Accept UAC prompt
* Enter any site which use a Java applet, Java should load normally
* Close Firefox
* Run Firefox again, but in normal mode (without administrator privileges)

Java should work correctly after that.

Or upgrade Firefox to newest version.

The newest version of Firefox has quite a lot of conflicts with the most recent Java update. Its amazing over the years how many people's problems have come down to firefox.

I've been reccomending IE7 since RC2, especially as a cure for lag.

There are always the 3lit3 d00dz who simply have to run firefox, but i'd rather have a quick and secure browser that actully works

Well I use Firefox for browsing all the time. And I have to use Java applets, flash portals etc alot for work and I never have any problems.

Ive also never experienced lag using it on funkysnooker. But then again I am running an Alienware with Dual-Core 3Ghz Pentium + 4 gig of RAM

Its generally accepted that Firefox is a more secure browser than IE7.