Whether or not you'll be using kegs, I think the beginner might find this perspective useful. Let's start off with the major equipment list. Later on, I'll try and clarify exactly how you'd use the stuff. But I'm assuming that you're already somewhat familiar with brewing either by having brewed a batch or read a book. Don't mess with the 5 gallon glass carboys - they do not hold enough, are heavy, difficult to clean and require siphoning.
Plastic buckets are much easier to use and are cheap.
Or you can find one and install your own spigot. Brewpot - Don't skimp. I started off thinking I'll just get by with a 4 gallon pot. What a lifesaver. If you definitely are only going to be doing extract-only brews, a 4 gallon pot is fine.