Installation directories

[Strix Varia]

Hi,
This will probably seem like a bit of a noob question, but I was wondering if there are specific directories where programs should be installed. Just for example, I recently downloaded the linux version of Firefox, and I installed in into /usr/Firefox because I read somewhere that /usr is for "secondary software file hierarchy." Also, once I've got it installed, how would I make it available in the main menu under Internet?
I'm using Fedora Core 3, if that makes a difference in answers.

Thanks in advance

[shams]

always use the yum to install the sfotware or install the fedora binary rpm packages, this will install in the default directories and will be avaliable from the menu.

[Strix Varia]

So if I were to install a game like Quake, or anything I download, like NetBeans for Java, I would use "yum"? I'm not exactly familiar with it so that's why I'm not sure. So far I've just been kind of guessing where to put stuff.

[hughitt1]

it took me a while to figure the same thing when i had just switched over. i have been so used to "/program files" last several years. From what i understand though, there are several places you can put things, its best just to pick one place, and stick with it so you know where things are. /usr/local/ is the one i use.

Also, once I've got it installed, how would I make it available in the main menu under Internet? I'm using Fedora Core 3, if that makes a difference in answers.

for kde, you can right click the "start" icon (you know what i mean) that pops up the menu, then there should be something like "edit menu" or "options".. its simlilar to windows-- you can just do "add program" and tell it to be listed under internet, point it to the program, and pickout an icon.

one last note- if you like to use the "run" command alot like i do.. you can make your programs work with this command by creating a symbolic link to the executable in either /bin/ /sbin/ /usr/bin or one of those folders. the command to make the link is "ln -s /source/file /symbolic/link" i believe.

gl