I am beginner.. Wants to start working with Flash.. Can someone tell me what is exactly required software to start with?

I am beginner.. Wants to start working with Flash.. Can someone tell me
what is exactly required software to start with?

I am beginner.. Wants to start working with Flash.. Can someone tell me
what is exactly required software to start with? and how to start
programming Flash . and What is the major difference between flash and
JAVA Applet