Question about Outlook Express

I removed Java because of security issues.  Recently opened a WLM account and have recurring problems -  both with Hotmail and Gmail (added).  Was just wondering if the errors might be due to lack of Java program?  List of errors (my email address x'd out for security here):

1.  Windows Live Mail cannot connect to the Internet, possibly because an antivirus or firewall program won't allow it. Make sure any antivirus or firewall programs on your computer allow Windows Live Mail (wlmail.exe) to access the Internet.

Windows Live Mail Error ID: 0x8004108D

2.  Unable to send or receive messages for the Hotmail (xxxxxxxxx) account.

Server Response: An error has occurred.
Windows Live Mail Error ID: 0x8004108D
Protocol: NNTP
Port: 0
Secure(SSL): No

3.  Unable to send or receive messages for the Hotmail xxxxxxxx) account.

Server Response: An error has occurred.
Windows Live Mail Error ID: 0x8004108D
Protocol: NNTP
Port: 0
Secure(SSL): No

4.  Unable to send or receive messages for the Gmail (xxxxxx) account. The host 'pop.gmail.com' could not be found. Please verify that you have entered the server name correctly.

5.  Unable to send or receive messages for the Gmail (xxxxxx) account. An unknown error has occurred.

Server: 'pop.gmail.com'
Windows Live Mail Error ID: 0x800CCC0B
Protocol: POP3
Port: 995
Secure(SSL): Yes

6.  Server: 'pop.gmail.com'
Windows Live Mail Error ID: 0x800CCC0D
Protocol: POP3
Port: 995
Secure(SSL): Yes
Socket Error: 11004 

At times the program works perfectly.  Then I get these messages above, sometimes with the triangular exclamation point where the progress is being shown (bottom right corner)

I'm trying very hard to "wean" myself from Yahoo! on the advise of my local computer tech who's concerned with hijacking, etc.  It has its problems, too, but not nearly as frequently as this WLM account.  I'd appreciate any help with  a resolution.  Thanks.