I've tried linux for about a day now, but I can't figure out how I install programs.
When I insert a cd which used to have a autolunch it just pop up at the desktop.
I guess that's okey, but when I double klick the cd ikon I just see the files inside the cd. And no installing starts. I really need help inn getting into these linux stuff so please resond!

Also I were wondering if anyone here knew a program which alow me to play/use programs which are made for windows? Where can I get them, and they have to be free

Okey thanks for your time!

You need to start the "package manager", to install programs.

If you tell us the name of your distribution, then somebody might be able to tell you how to open your package manager.

Ubuntu, think the version is 5.10.

I'm totaly new to linux so keep it in mind when answering, talk to as you would to a baby

Ubuntu uses a program called apt with a front end called Synaptic. http://ubuntuguide.org/ would be a useful place for you to start.

Throntel

There are different ways to add programs to your Linux system. Let's stick to the ones suitable for beginners

If you use Ubuntu, you'll profit greatly from the vast collection of packages (prebuilt software) avialable through the so called repositories. These are accessable through Synaptic, the graphical front end to apt-get (the command line tool that does all the work, but for starters, it's may well stay hidden in the background).

You'll find Synaptic through the menu: System -> System Configuration -> Synaptic package manager (the actual wording might be a little different; I'm using a German GUI here). Use the search feature to locate any package you'd like to add. If the one you need or want isn't there, look for alternatives - you can also search descriptions, so you might end up with a whole choice of solutions. If in doubt, check back here.

To run Windows programs under Linux, look into Wine. There's also Cedega, which is specifically for games.

Ehm, well I found the Synaptic Package Manager. Though I still don't get it to work, when I press it nothing happens. It sounds like the computer are starting to work and then it stops and no window or anything pops up.

This is also a problem with other programs such as most of the admin options, and prefrences?
What's going on with my computer?!

Please help me out, I don't want to return to windows

In order for us to figure out the problem, you will need to follow these steps:
1) Open a commandline (terminal/shell).
2) Type in "sudo synaptic".
3) It will ask for your password. Enter your password.
4) It should start synaptic.
5) If synaptic does not start correctly, there should be error messages on the commandline.
6) Copy and paste those error messages to us.

Thanks for all the replys and help, I got it now. But it was some bugg in the package system so I had to reinstall ubuntu. Works fine now

PS: When you get Synaptic running, be sure to turn on the "Universe" repository. This gives you access to an amazing range of stuff. When you hear of a program or utility, check first to see if it shows up in Synaptic.