Affiliate Marketing Secrets

I recently purchased and downloaded a training manual called “Autopilot Profits” The claim was “Easy” “Very Simple” Everything to make me believe I finally found the right help in getting started, but instead I am even more confused. I am not at all computer savvy but I am able to navigate the internet and I know the computer basics. Is there anyone out there who is familiar with affiliate programs who can point me in the right direction for help getting started I would greatly appreciate it. Please don’t refer me to another website offering this type of training material. If it exists I need the Affiliate for Dummies.
Also, what is affiliate software? Is it something that you basically install and it does all the work for you for a fee? If so, it is worth it and which is best?
Again, thank you very much if you have any suggestions.