I am just getting back into chess after about a 30 year layoff. Have only played a few games, but I am enjoying it and I'm happy to be playing again.

 

Of the few games I've played, plus the many I have looked over, it seems that quite a few people enjoy attacking either the f2 or f7 pawns with their king bishop, supported by the queen knight. I have noticed this particularly with players rated between 1200-1500.

 

Is the thought that by attacking that particular square that you are disrupting your opponents plan to castle on the king side?

 

Believe me, I am no opening expert. About the only thing I know is the Ruy Lopez up to move 4 or 5, and that is my usual opening while playing white. What might be some strategies, tactics, or plans to disrupt my opponent from attacking and capturing the f pawn early in the game? 

I would suggest castling early and then if your opponent sacrifices a knight and bishop for the pawn and rook on f2 or f7 then the two minor pieces that you receive for the pawn and rook should be slightly better.