Linux newbee - how do I install things

[Deke]

I'm fairly new to Linux and have installed Ubuntu 7.10 and managed to do a couple of simple things following scripts from web pages but, what's the easiest way to get to grips with installing things in Linux.
I was hoping that the latest version of Ubuntu for example would have a much more automatic way of installing things from the web like RealPlayer. Unfortunately, I have tried to follow and repeat the thread about making it into an .exe without success.
I have used the command "chmod +x /home/eng815/Desktop/RealPlayer11Gold.bin"
for which I believe I have the correct path to the file I downloaded to the Desktop but, the OS comes back with No such file or directory.
Are there any good new books on the Linux commands or alternative GUI guides.
Thanks in advance, I know we are all out to help each other overcome the Redmond monopoly and bring free computing to the masses.

[jayd512]

Hi, Deke! Welcome to LinuxForums!

Actually, with Ubuntu installing a program should be as easy as dropping to a terminal real quick and executing

sudo apt-get <package name>

But this thread should be able to explain a lot of it better. And if you're looking into Windows applications to run, you might wanna look into Wine.
I hope that helps, but if not then don't hesitate to post!

[Deke]

Thanks Jay - it didn't but, I will read the pages in the link you sent.

Ta.