If you want a forum, most hosts have automated scripts for phpBB – very easy for anybody to install, and good software. Demo: http://www.phpbb.com/styles/demo.php
Find a host with the “fantastico” feature, and you’re all set.
There are some very good ftp programs you can use – some are free. I’m using WS_FTP95, a very ancient and very basic ftp utility with no bells and whistles.
All ftp really does is move files from your computer to your site, and visa versa. You need to know the ftp address of your site (ftp.yoursite.com), username and password.
P.S. There are no silly questions. Everybody here was a newbie at one time or another.