If you want to install java in Debian, first try OpenJDK. It will do almost all that Sun/Oracle Java will do, without all the installation and update headaches.

Once again as root:

apt-get install openjdk-6-jre

And to get the java browser plugin:

apt-get install icedtea-plugin

If you need java for live chat, these packages should do the trick, as I use live chat and don't have the Sun/Oracle Java installed.

BTW - Great news that you flash is working. I've achieved success with the copy/paste of commands from forums myself, and, that's why we post the code. Just makes things easier.

Sorry, in Debian Sid, icedtea-plugin is the name it goes by. In Squeeze, it goes by the name icedtea6-plugin. Geez, I hate when they do that.

apt-get install icedtea6-plugin

Hope that helps.

After installing, if you go into Firefox (Iceweasel) and go to:
Edit-->Preferencces-->General-->Manage Add-ons-->Plugins
You should see the IcedTea-Web Plugin listed.

Have Fun.

Great news electricdel. Linux is naturally secure, although reading up on things will help you make it even more secure. Good luck, have fun and let us know if you have any more questions.