iam not able to install any software

allen varghese · 06-20-2007, 12:07 AM

I hav linux back track, after downloading software files from the internet which is in tar format, but when i double clicked to run the tar file it shows some error.
how to install software in linux????????????

Nylex · 06-20-2007, 12:15 AM

Firstly, you posted in the wrong forum. I'll report this thread and Jeremy will move it. Secondly, you need to tell us the error message if you want help. You'll probably need to extract the files from the tar ball and there'll be a script or something to use to install. It'd help if you told us what you were trying to install as well.

titanium_geek · 06-20-2007, 03:32 AM

.tar files are not .exe files...

this may help

jeremy · 06-20-2007, 08:43 AM

// moved.

--jeremy

pixellany · 06-20-2007, 09:05 AM

First, always try the package manager to see if what you want is there. The package manager is far and away the easiest method.

A .tar file is an archive, which first has to be extracted. I normally put such things in /opt, but you can also make a special directory in you home directory.

First, untar the file:
"tar -xvf filename"
then "ls" and you will see a new folder---"cd" into this, and then "ls" to view the contents

What happens next depends on the contents. First look for an install script or README file