No worries--IMHO everyone should try out Linux--you can run it off a USB stick without affecting your current computer's OS...a great way to get started without *any* risks.

In fact, I typically run Linux straight off of a USB stick--it's perfectly usable with a reasonable laptop, and because nothing is saved to the USB (unless you choose to) it is immune from viruses / malware (as you're always starting with a "fresh" system with each boot).

And (no matter what) if you're ever concerned, just download a fresh copy of Linux, flash it to the USB and you're off an running--good as new.

SO many advantages of Linux, but security is definitely tops on my list of why I use it...(and the price tag--free--is a close second).