How do you buy base crypto?

So, I'm curious about buying base crypto. What's the process like? Do I need to go through a specific exchange or platform? Are there any specific steps I should follow to ensure a smooth and secure transaction? I've heard about things like wallets and private keys, do I need to worry about those when buying base crypto? I'm just trying to get a clear understanding of the entire process before I dive in. Can you walk me through it?