I'm considering switching to linux but I'm not a computer savvy person, so I wanted to have the option to switch back to windows if unforeseen complications (I only have 1 pc). Is it just a download on usb and install? And what ways can I get the product key or "cleaner" debloated versions.
You need to buy a separate $25 SSD for Windows. Do not attempt to have both Linux and Windows on same HDD/SSD, Windows will always kill Linux.
A safe method to go about a debloated and privacy friendly (yes it's possible) Windows installation is using AME Project's playbook with their Wizard tool, on top of a fresh ISO you get from Microsoft. For activation, use the tools from https://massgrave.dev website, HWID activation.
After installing Windows, consider using simplewall as your program firewall and to limit Microsoft telemetry heavily.
Avoid installing random crap, and use a solid antivirus like Kaspersky (ignore political nonsense, merit matters) if you pirate TV shows, movies and software.
I cannot tolerate Windows other than how AME Project does it. Their playbook is better than AtlasOS and other playbooks.
Defender is dogshit. Never rely on a cloud based antivirus, and never rely on one that cannot protect against ransomware. Putting Kaspersky alongside Avast is beyond disingenuous.
By using Defender, you stay in the illusion that it can protect your system from 0days, ransomware and other malware, and that it can protect you in case the internet is not working on your system for some reason.
Kaspersky is number one at defense from 0days, ransomware, can rollback the damage done by malware, and even when most of its components may get disabled, or even without internet, it can give an unparalleled level of defense against malware and protect your system and files. Nothing else is even remotely as good.
That is some alternate dimension reality, not the one I am living in. You probably also think malware is imaginary, and Linux is immune to it and Windows is some magical malware magnet. I do not subscribe to such ideas that belong to an extremist section of FOSS community. I am hardcore in my considerations of products/tools based on merit and performance.
With a platform like Windows that is risky to use without a condom (antivirus or on demand scanner), I refuse to entertain the ideas of stuff like ClamAV that does not work or cloud based Defender that is not good enough, just because it may provide privacy, but at the end is unable to protect your data, your privacy and security anyway.
Your the one pushing Russian greyware. I never said Linux is magically secure. You just need to be aware of things that are a security or privacy panacea.