You will be able to upload your HTML code, images, etc. to tripod.
Free is a good way to go since you are just getting into it. Once you feel out your needs, you can then make the jump to a paid host.
Something to the level of even a "mini" psc is much more complicated and in depth than simple html code. If you really wanted to take on this task, look into the free bulletin board systems out there. phpbbb3 is what I use. It is bridged with Joomla for my CMS.
You can take a look at my site to see what I put together if you want to.
http://www.autolotonline.com
PSDavinci made the images for me that I used in the header.
My business website is still a work in progress, but the link for that page is
http://www.customdesignsource.com
Let me know if you have any more questions. I'll give ya a hand.