It think the first question we need to answer is where you are located, because what you want to do depends somewhat on in what country you will be using the radios. Paulears is in the UK and I am in the US, and the rules vary by country, so our responses will be quite different.
If you are in the US and want to use radios, there are a number of options available to you, and some of them don’t require a license. Radios are extremely useful in a lot of applications, both personal and professional, and sometimes even vital. They can also be a lot of fun. Of course, there are rules, and the rules can seem confusing. Fortunately, you’ve come to the right place, because this forum is filled with a lot of useful information that can get you started.
You ask some very good questions and they are not unique to those new to radios. Typing a question or topic in the search bar will usually provide you with an answer of some sort. There are discussions, articles, podcasts and videos that address many questions you may have.
To help clear up any confusion about what your options are, here are some links to forum posts with articles, podcasts and videos that will help you figure out where you want to go with this, because there are options, and it’s a personal choice.
Which Radio System is Best for Me?
Types of Two Way Radios - Podcast
Most importantly, don’t be afraid to ask questions, that’s how we all learn, and discussion of them is what the forum is for.