Jimmiejoe, I'm going to answer your questions here so others may read my thoughts also.
First off I'm no computer guru, I came to use Linux because of the problems listed in this thread and many more. And Linux has its issues also, but you will have more choices as to how they will be handled. There is a learning curve but there is also a huge community that has the answers. Its this community that is the real plus with Linux. Linux is infinity configurable, tweakable. It can be feature loaded or cut down to the bare basics, Dont want an update you can skip it if you chose without being badgered into do so. There is a "store" for apps called repositories, most of the time you will find what you need there but commercial developers do not always code their programs for Linux. This is the single biggest problem with linux.
The big pluses for me are,
1. Free OS / community support
2. More secure / increased Privacy.
3. Lite on system resources. Often Linux will be faster on older hardware especially if one picks a lite desktop environment.
4. An absolutely insane amount of free programs.
5. Configurable to my tastes, not Microsoft's.
If you don't need programs that are windows only and are willing to use the command line then I see no reason to not switch to Linux. And there will be times when command line use will be needed. However most of the time simple copy and paste from the community can accomplish most fixes.
The best distributions IMO for newbies are going to be Debian based such as Ubuntu/Linux mint, these also have the largest communities to help if needed. They will also have the best support for hardware, IE drivers, ect. These will also be the easiest to install and will be mostly automated needing basic answers such as user name, location, times zones, ect.
Dual booting allows for you to maintain two operating systems, this provides a buffer between the two while you become comfortable with Linux. This is mostly automated upon a Linux installation if you chose, BUT IF THIS FAILS YOU COULD LOSE DATA, possibly the entire drive. Always backup data to a secure separate drive, usb.
Once again, There is a learning curve. For me it was worth it to get out from under windows. You will have to put some time into Linux. IMO, its worth it!