Hi Guys,

I am really new to Linux so this is a bit of a lame question but
when downloading a new program for Linux I am faced with 3 file extensions which are:

1. tar.gz
2. src.rpm
3. i386.rpm

Which is the easiest package from an install point of view?
I have installed Opera web browser and my modem drivers using i386.rpm's (i think) what is the difference between them
I am using RedHat 7.2 Kernel version 2.4.7 -10

Thanks

Check out our Glossary section, we have both those terms in there, tar and rpm, might help you understand them a bit.
http://www.linuxquestions.org/questions/glossary.php

Most likely if your familiar with RPM's and installed using those, might just stick with the i386.rpm's then. It stands for Redhat Package Manager... in which if your using Redhat, they work just fine with it..

Oh and RPM's are probably the easiest to install, usually one command and your done... As for tar.gz files, first you unpack, then configure, make then make install.. so more steps and sometimes it varies on what your installing the steps you take..

Definitely "i386.rpm" which means "binary"
You can simpley install it using "rpm -ivh xxx.i386.rpm"

"src.rpm" means "source" You dont' want that. You need "Binary"

"tar.gz" well, you could download this if you can't find any "rpm" pacakge.

Thomas.

USE RPM, or you might get problems with your rpm manager !
tar gz only if you know what you're doing, and know how to compile
a package.
src or devel rpms or tarballs you only need for developing or compiling other progs...