What directory do I install new programs
 

Hello,

As you can guess by the subject line I am pretty new to Linux. I have played around with installing different distros and have used the programs that come with those distros for a couple months. However, I would like to know what is the most common directory to install programs in. I know that it doesn't really matter, at least I don't think it does, but I was wanting to know what the general rule is.

Also, I frequently upgrade to new distros, so I would like to install them in a place that will not get overwritten when I upgrade. Finally, I want it to be accessible to all users on the system.

I hope that someone can help enlighten me in my quest for Linux knowledge!

Thanks!

Usually most programs are setup to install to /usr/bin or /usr/local/bin as these are usually by default in all users current path to execute the application.

You can usually change this when installing though. Its always wise to read the INSTALL or README files that come with the application your installing. But the good rule of thumb is to install to those directories. Its just all a matter of preference though. You can install to your users /home directory, but then it requires more work if you want other users to be able to access the application, etc.