How can I get started with Linux and install it easily?

If you want a straightforward experience, try Linux Mint. It's user-friendly and has a graphical installer, so you won't need to mess with the terminal unless you want to. It’s great for beginners coming from Windows because it allows you to do most things through a GUI. Just remember that some Windows-specific games and applications might not work directly, but you can use tools like Proton on Steam to help with that.

To really get a feel for Linux, I suggest using a virtual machine first. This way, you can practice installing it without messing up your current setup. Start with something like VirtualBox or VMware. You’ll need to familiarize yourself with concepts like distributions, desktop environments, and package managers, but once you get the hang of it, it’s quite fun! Plus, you can dual boot if you’re feeling adventurous later on.

If you're just looking to browse the web and watch videos, most beginner-friendly distros like Linux Mint or Ubuntu will have you covered. Install one from a live USB stick, then just play around with it for a while. Just know that Linux operates quite differently from Windows; you won’t find things in the same places, and the way software is installed is different—often through a package manager instead of downloading executable files. But it’s not as scary as it sounds!

The biggest difference between Linux and Windows is the underlying mechanics. Linux isn't a Windows clone, so you'll notice things like different directory structures and ways to install software. Prepare for a learning curve but embrace it! Start with a distro known for being user-friendly like Linux Mint or going mainstream with Ubuntu. You can easily create a bootable USB to test out different distros on your hardware.