Hi, I just found out this nice software which allows you to install Ubuntu from Windows as any other application. I haven't tried it personally though, because I'm already running Linux, but some of you may want to check it out. Here it is: https://www.ubuntu.com/download/desktop I hope it helps somebody.
I learnt CSS the same way I learnt HTML: by learning PHP. Whenever I need a feature, I google it, I learn how to use it, and add to my personal knowledge. That way it's less boring than looking at a very long tutorial
If you want to be a decent admin you have to know HTML+CSS and the dynamic language your website software uses... otherwise, you shouldn't run a website. So yes, I know HTML
I'm currently running Linux Mint. It's a modification of Ubuntu, which adds an all-in-one menu with search feature (like Vista), includes w32codecs and DVD support from clean install, Beryl by deafult and also some extra cool tools which help you when you need to configure stuff. It's got its own look and feel which I prefer to Ubuntu's by far.
I used Dev-C++ when I started programming in C++ and it was kind of okay for command line software, but if you want to code for Windows, I'd suggest Visual C++, which is IMHO easier to configure and even more powerful.