Linux – a clone of Unix, its "free"
A Linux box – a computer with Linux installed as the operating system

You can take a class on Unix at your local Community Collage or just get the book “Linux for dummies.”

Html will help, again you can take the class or read a book, it is a very basic programming language. You will not need anything other than notepad which comes with windows. You should learn this first it will broaden your mind as far as computer logic hence making it easy for you to pick up other programming languages.

Furthermore, I think Happyhacker.org is a good place to start just be sure you understand exactly what your doing before you do it, don’t try to jump in head first you will become overwhelmed and lose interest, take your time and have fun with it.

Ps. Check out winlinux 2000, I will try to post a link. It is a version of Linux for windows and makes the install a breeze.