Hi CityMasterTrader,
The FAQ linked below gives an overview of the pros and cons of direct market access brokers (DMA) Vs. non-dma brokers and makes suggestions about how to decide which broker is the best for you:
Can You Recommend a Data Feed, Charting Software & Broker?
Take a look at that and then ask any specific questions you may have. In terms of losing your money, if you stick to the big name regulated brokers, then you're unlikely to lose your money through insolvency or fraud. There's still a massive potential - likelihood even - that you'll lose your money - but that will be down to you and your trading skills and have little or nothing to do with your choice of broker!
Tim.