ok im really new to linux, ive been all over these forums and have read lots of information and learned many things- But...I cant seem to get my UBUNTU 5.10 to browse the internet like I want it. more to the point-MEDIA I cant get media to play - Ive been all over macromedia, and the mozilla plugins - etc.etc long story short: I really need help in is setting up firefox to play video like I can
on that other OS. I really enjoy Ubuntu and look forward to learning more about linux - but I need to be able to get my "browser proper"
so I can further depart from WIN.

Did you try using Automatix. Here's a guide to downloading and setting it up.

Sorry I can't be more help, but I'd need more specific questions!

I havent tried it- ive tried different players and down loading realplayer, and others but I couldnt get them to work - not sure if I missed something during the directions but ive gone over everything I did and still get the same result - I've been told theres a program you can buy to use MS codecs or browser plug ins? is that true? what is it?- I'm not opposed to a purchase - as long as I can get firefox to show all the media I look at it'll be wotrh it.
IBM TnkPd T23 1.1 mhz, and also a amd 64 3800+ desktop

thank you pljvaldez
automatix may be what i need- looks like that may lead me in a better direction- keep the suggestions comin' tho - I might actually learn something!

I've never used Automatix, but I think that is what you want. It will allow you to install everything that you need to get all the video that you want working in Firefox. In particular, it installs Mplayer, and the Mplayer plug-in.

If you really do want to pay for something though, what you were talking about is called CrossOver Office. It has the ability to run many Windows programs including Windows Media Player. But IMHO, it's a waste of money if all you're using it for is a browser plugin.

Thank you very much, I'm travelling and havent had the chance to dig in and try your suggestions- pdeman2 and pljvaldez
I appreciate your help- I'll let you know in a couple days if Iwas successful !

"apt-get install w32codecs" helped me a bunch with the issues you are having. That installs the M$ codecs that some of the media stuff wants. If it isn't in your repositories Google for it and add the repository you need to your apt sources.