How do I install programs in Linux?

[Komencanto]

I just downloaded and installed Redhat 9 and thats fine, but now I want to install a program. For example, I want to install firebird.7, so I downloaded the linux version from www.mozilla.org. Then I extracted the files into a folder. And then what? I have no idea how to run any of the files there. Most just open into text files with source code and such.

I would also like to be able to see a floppy disk. I put in the floppy, now what?

I tried to play an MP3 and was told I couldn't because of the whole patent things surrounding them. Dammit, I don't want to turn everything into oggs!

Could anyone give me a link that explains this stuff. Or perhaps I should just go back to windows =)

[amgeex]

Try getting an .RPM file, then click on it twice and it should install without hassle.

[ciphrix]

For the XMMS mp3 issue, install this (http://shrike.freshrpms.net/rpm.html?id=524) package from freshrpms.net and you should be good to go.

After you untar the Firebird tarball you should see a file called MozillaFirebird. Just run that and it should start the browser right up.

You will have to mount the floppy drive. You would do this by typing:

# mount -t vfat /dev/fd0 /mnt/floppy

Of course the directory /mnt/floppy must already exist so if it doesn't make sure you create it first. Then change into /mnt/floppy and you should see the contents of the floppy disk.

If you search the forums here or search


http://google.com/linux you should be able to find answers to most of your questions because chances are someone else before you has had the same question.