installing software

[hlgaskill]

I'm really new to Linux. I downloaded MDK9.0 then made the disks to install the OS but I haven't figured out how to install indiviual programs that should run on Linux. Neither do I know how to put shortcuts on my desktop as I did with "W******". Can someone help me become less of an idiot? Thanks in advance

[endoalpha]

Originally posted by hlgaskill
I'm really new to Linux. I downloaded MDK9.0 then made the disks to install the OS but I haven't figured out how to install indiviual programs that should run on Linux. Neither do I know how to put shortcuts on my desktop as I did with "W******". Can someone help me become less of an idiot? Thanks in advance

no.....
but check out this link.. you need it....
http://www.tuxedo.org/~esr/faqs/smart-questions.html

[shadowrider]

Originally posted by hlgaskill
I'm really new to Linux. I downloaded MDK9.0 then made the disks to install the OS but I haven't figured out how to install indiviual programs that should run on Linux. Neither do I know how to put shortcuts on my desktop as I did with "W******". Can someone help me become less of an idiot? Thanks in advance if you meant installing packages under linux, usually with source file: you compile, make, and install (with configure, make, make install). you can check the INSTALL doc though included with each source file. or you can use rpm -ivh package (to install) or rpm -Uvh package (to upgrade) if you're using rpm.

[Thorin]

Since you are using mandrake, try taking a look at their documentation on getting started. It mentions an app called RPMDrake, that is used to manage packages installed in your computer and install new ones.

Package management in Mandrake (http://www.linux-mandrake.com/en/doc/90/en/Starter.html/software-management.html)

[carlywarly]

Shortcuts in KDE - right-click on an empty area of desktop. Choose Create New Link to Application - click the Execute tab and then usually just type the name of the app (eg xcdroast). Then click the General tab, type a relevant name in, click the little square with the icon to the left, and find a suitable one for the program, then click OK. That should do it.

Sometimes, the program requires a full path to make it work eg Netscape, but by then you may be experienced enough to find the path to the executable yourself.