if you are new to this game, i would recommend finding some friends to join, this game is imensly complicated and can be nearly impossible on your own.
the wiki is a GREAT source of tips and information
http://ringofbrodgar.com/wiki/there are lots of custom clients, they give you a good advantage over the regular client (i recommend Ender, but there are far more than this one)
viewtopic.php?f=5&t=14575if you see someone with a sword, or a bow, or anything shiny or pink, run. don't ask them anything, don't talk to them at all don't even wait for them to realise you're there, just RUN, the majority of people with better gear don't give a single fuck about new people and will kill you quickly.
don't set up near a river, your are more likely to be raided that way, you are easier to find and easier to get to. create a home for yourself AT LEAST 1-2 screens away, or where you cant the river on the minimap.
don't be afraid to ask for help on the forums, there are a lot of nice people on here who are more than willing to lend some advice.
good luck and good hunting, i hope you have fun in this game, it is seriously undervalued!
oh, and one more thing,
DON'T and i mean
DON'T piss off anybody, anywhere, ever. be a nice person, doesnt matter who they are or what they are about to do to you, DONT PISS THEM OFF!