Do I need to utilize an antivirus if I use Linux?
I am very dumb when it comes to computers, is Linux easy to download and use?
Are there step by step instructions for beginners?

Sorry to bother you.

Regards,

TMD

Simple answer is No you don't, not simple answer is there are many cross platform viri/bugs/trojans/etc so the idea is to keep your system up to date with security updates.
Don't go putting yourself down. Yes Linux is easy to download and use. Some are easier than others. If you want a version that holds your hand then I would suggest Linux Mint Maya LTS (LTS = Long Term Support). I personally like MATE as a Desktop Environment but there are otehrs listed on that page in the link. Be sure to get a version that suits your needs and is legal in your jurisdiction.
There are many sites that have these, YouTube has videos as well for some distributions. Do a web search "How to install Linux Mint Maya" (that's just an example) and you will find what you need. If you have any questions just come back and ask.

Don't be sorry for asking for help and advice.
Cheers.

Also worth keeping in mind http://linux.oneandoneis2.org/LNW.htm

The computer will be brand new. It is a laptop however, not sure if that matters. The computer's OS is Win 7. One more side question does Linux utilize Java? And if I join Linux am I at risk from Oracle since they are being such jerks lately.

Regards,

TMD

Please post the make and model, especially cpu/RAM/Disk, so we can advise you better.
There are some things in Linux that use Java.
You don't have to worry about Oracle unless you use their version of Linux.

I would sussgest you to not install linux but boot from cd or pendrive first time (you can try several distros this way).
I would not say Linux is more difficult or easier than windows, but it is really different. Do not expect the same applications, same tools, same menus and functions, however you will find similar tools using different look, different names ...

This may help you to at lest pick a distro to start with:

http://www.zegeniestudios.net/ldc/

It is by no means meant to be definitive or 100% accurate, but if you answer the questions without bias it seems like a nice place to start.

1 members found this post helpful.

I agree with pan64... run Linux from a USB thumb drive for a couple of weeks to see if you like it. Then, if you decide you like it, you can start the process of replacing Windows with Linux. (Or, you can install them side-by-side in a "dual boot" so you can choose between Linux or Windows each time you turn on the computer.)

The one thing to remember when trying a new OS....they will behave similar in the user environment, but they are not the same underneath. You will have some learning to do, but it can be very worthwhile. I find myself wishing I could do some of the things I do in Linux very easily just as easily in Windows.

There are cross platform men? The plutral of 'virus' is 'viruses', not 'viri'-

http://linuxmafia.com/~rick/faq/plural-of-virus.html

recent pc's (especially those with win-8) make it tricky to install another os due to its secure-boot bios which can be toggled off but i've had issues still.

one possibility would be buying a pc with linux pre-installed (i think hp has them on their business site) as well as system76.com .


this is a good video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9tMMRUWF7nA

If you want an idea of the range of software available, see this site:
http://linuxappfinder.com/alternatives?page=3

One big difference is that Linux gives you a choice of GUIs. I've heard a lot of people complaining about the changes in the user interface that came in with Windows 8. They can grumble, but there's not much they can do. When far greater changes came in the Gnome desktop, those who didn't like them just changed to another one. Mint's Mate is traditional and not too flashy. If you love special effects — icons zooming and bouncing, etc — KDE has all the eye-candy the heart could desire! PCLinuxOS is a good distro for KDE.

Since the OP states that his machine runs with Windows 7 Secure Boot will not be a problem at all with that machine.

http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/viriThis plural is non-standard, but is used jocularly.
Funny thing, I always thought the word was plural not plutral. Maybe we both need to learn English better.

Welcome. No bother at all. We have all been where you are now. I would still consider myself a linux newbie as well. Though, I have come a very long way from where I began. I dont regret delving into linux and ditching M$. There is a learning curve but I have found it worth it.... with some patience and work. It has been fun learning and applying the knowledge. Yes, there is plenty of tutorials and help from experienced members along the way.
My two cents about what distro to start with is similar to the other posts. I think trying the live versions of several would be helpful (ie Mint, Ubuntu...Zorin is another one to look at). You can then install the OS. Jump right in. Have fun!

Regards