Total Effing Noob HELP.

[russianmafioso]

Okay, so i got my phone on wednesday.... i got it because ive seen all these awesome upgrades and flashes i can do on it in comparison with the SMT5800 and the fact that its got wifi and a touch screen.

That all aside i have a few simple questions....

What are the first steps i need to take in order to get this stuff flashed to 6.1 and with the most upto date ROM?

I have an 8GB card on its way from newegg due monday but i know i need the update, how do i install it? do i throw it onto the card and then have the phone open it? how does that driver work? Is this process similar to all other programs i will need in order to get cool stuff on it?

Ive seen some starter guides, but they all are vague and make me scared that im REALLLY GONNA MESS IT UP BAD.

Im a PC enthusiast and i know how easily you can mess up a PC so i assume the same goes for phones.

I also want to backup my data, how can i do this before i flash? Also... another question i have is whether i can some sort of failsafe so i don't brick my phone by being a noob.

Anyone in San Diego wanna help a brother out?