Is there any way I can stop that or get rid of it?
Questions about os
As someone who's never even loaded a basic os, how do I get it, what do I do with the program once I've gotten it, etc...
I don't mean to sound pessimistic, I'm honestly just confused a bit...
If you have to ask, then Windows is probably your best bet. I'd recommend Windows 8.1.
No. You could try blacklisting all of the collection servers on your router, but then you won't get security updates. Given how susceptible to ransomware Windows 7 is, that isn't a good idea. You just shouldn't use Windows. As simple as that.
It's not that complicated. An Arch install should only take a fifteen minutes or so. Just follow the guide. You can torrent an iso or direct download from the Arch Linux website.
Don't fall for the arch meme
Install gentoo, you can get wine and everything working for it after a day or two
It's the easiest to use bleeding edge distro. If you want to play games you need a bleeding edge distro.
Yeah, it sounds kinda dumb. I don't think I'll do it.
But I mean, Why go through the hassle of getting everything up and running when I can just get windows?
Like, I'm not even joking, what are the advantages of linux over windows? So far, it just seems like people use linux for the sake of saying they use linux and to not fall under the windows umbrella.
What are the legitimate advantages of doing that much work for a subpar result?
Void is pretty freaking easy too. Has a gui package manager if you're lazy or a brainlet.
In terms of gaming? Not a lot of advantages desu.