Java is very important for LW. You should be able to at least update to MRJ 2.2.5 for OS 8.1-9.2
http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=75097
But as you can see in the following link yo may even be able to update to 2.2.6 Here (click on link)
MRJ 2.2.6 for OS 9.2.2 http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=120209

High speed modems & many routers use internal NAT firewalls. Can you tell us the model numbers of both your modem & router? These may rewquire port forwarding to allow LW full access thru port 6346.