Ive read the system requirements for Knoppix already, but I dont know what "Intel compatable" means srry i am a complete noob

I am currently using a Sony Vaio (PCV-RX752)
-2A GHZ Intel Pentium 4 Process. (dont know if that means anything)

also, i want to make sure that this OS wont damage anything. Cause i heard from some ppl that after using Linux, some parts of their computer were seriously damaged.

ive been wanting to use a different OS other than windows for quite some time now, and when i read an article about linux, i wanted desperately to try it out.


please help me use this OS, ty

( i am trying out this OS, and if it works as a replacement to windows, i'll use it on my laptop that im getting as a present soon)