What folder to download programs to?
 

When I download a program from the Internet, what folder should I download the program to? I have downloaded things for the web server and placed them into the html folder with no problems.

I am mainly asking about programs that run inside of Linux. I am using Mandrake 9.2 on one box and Ubuntu on the other.

Any information will be greatly appreciated.

Wherever you like, but I have a /home/tredegar/DLs directory to try to keep things tidy.

But you are using Mandrake9.2 / ubuntu, and they both have their own package-managers (urpmi for mandrake, and apt for ubuntu) - if you use these, programs will automatically be put into the "correct" places (eg /usr/local/bin/), and your menus updated automagically. Try not to make life too difficult for yourself!
HTH & welcome to LQ!

Let's distinguish between "download" and "install". Either one can go anywher you wnat, but here are some conventions:
Downloads in a folder called "downloads" in your home directory.
If you install using the GUI package manager--eg Synaptic--then stay with the defaults. The executables will likely go into /usr/bin or /usr/<something>
If you use rpm, apt, etc at the command-line to install, also take the defaults
Similar answer for compiling.

Stuff that does not fit--put in /opt

You can also have a folder of executables in the home directory. This is where I put--eg--scripts.

Ok, that clears it up in my mind.

Thanks.