How does linux install a program

[slacked]

When i want to install a prog in windows i can choose the location where i can install it. How does the installation happen in linux when i install a program using installpkg? Where are the files installed and what is the reason for doing this in such a way?

[Segfault]

man hier

[jmadero]

security is a major issue in linux, having it install in root directory (/usr/bin) or a directory that requires root password is the only way to ensure new users (or not very smart "experienced" users) don't start installing things in places that they shouldn't be installed.

It is possible to install in different areas, just takes a bit of work

[Segfault]

If system-wide installation is not possible or not feasible one can always install into ~/bin. Putting this on users path first ensures programs in users home bin will be executed instead of system ones.
For instance, there is mplayer installed by package management tools. You want to try new svn version? You install it into ~/bin. Now, when you execute mplayer command the one in your home bin will be used. Didn't like it? Remove it and next time you execute mplayer the stable one from system will be used. Convenient.