step by step compilation for a newbie

Mr.Mounsey · 11-17-2003, 10:49 PM

Hi, im a complete linux newbie and have 2 questions

what is this ./configure make make install stuff, i see it alot, and need to use it to install things like gaim, but im unsure as to the actual method of doing so, as im a complete noob

second, my keyboard is off, / looks like é if i use the question mark key (have to use numpad), nothing major, but awfully annoying, how do i fix this
would choosing a different option in xf86config work (excuse the poor notation, as question marks look like É)

Thanks!

krazyglue · 11-17-2003, 11:05 PM

after you untar the program, look for a "readme" file or directory. this will tell you what to do as far as the ./configure, make, and make install go ( most programs have very good documentation files). You should check into RPMs to install programs. They tend to be much easier to install. Look at http://rpmfind.com for most programs. Most installs tend to be a one liner. i.e. rpm -ivh programfile.rpm

Hope this helps

Mr.Mounsey · 11-18-2003, 01:22 PM

ok, i got the rpm package and attempted to install it, but ended up with alot of errors, saying it was dependant on some other thing that wasn't there. i'm at school right now, but i'll post the full error message when i'm next at home

linux is so refreshing, actually having to think instead of windows-esq "next next next i agree next next finish no don't open the stupid readme"

thanks for your help