How do I get ubuntu to connect with my LAN?
 

Finished installation with disc on desktop. Everythinng is great except the OS can't connect with my linksys/embarq dsl lan, and I don't know how to tell it to. Thanks.

If your router/switch has a DHCP server, you can use dhcp to set up your IP, gateway & nameserver settings. The modem-ISP setup is usually configured in the router and once configured, the router NATs the address enabling connection sharing. Simply opt for DHCP in the network configuration. Everything will be configured for you then. If you want to use file-sharing, the run through the samba configuration. It should also open the ports in your hosts firewall for you.

The menu at the top. Go into system administration network and set up your connection.