How do I install basic stuff?

[Jjciantar]

When I double-click on setup.exe of an installation program. It asks me what to run it with. I chose System>Configuration>Install Software. It then says to me, ZMD is not running. I don't know what to do.

[michaelmarohn]

Normally in Linux you don't install using .exe files. You use .rpm files or tarballs. I would use YaST to do my installations if I were you.

[Jjciantar]

Say if I wanted to install a game. How do I do it? I don't understand how to use YaST.

[kbk]

you may have to change the repositories, check this link out, I found it very useful. http://www.thejemreport.com/mambo/content/view/254

[Jjciantar]

Is there any easier way? Like a program?

[zsugiart]

jciantar, binaries (executables) for windows and linux are different. You *can't* run .exe on Linux, because they are built for Windows. I have used Windows for a very long time, so I know what got you confused.

In Linux, 'installation' is a messy concept. This is why we use 'application installer management system' like YAST because they make life easier for Linux user. and yes YAST *is* a program.

application, program, binary, they are the same thing.

YAST works by scanning a list of repositories (program storehouse). You then search for an application name, and hit the accept button. YAST will install it for you. Some programs are only available in certain repositories, basically the more repository you have gives you more program options.

Also, 80% of the programs you know in Windows, will not be on Linux. Winamp, for example, will not be on Linux. Most ppl listen to mp3s using Amarok or XMMS.

To me, your question shows a great misconception for Linux - Windows is MUCH easier to use than Linux, and after using SuSe for a while, I'd say it is still not good enough to be compared with Windows for desktop day-to-day uses.

I learn Linux because I want to improve my computing skill - because in the area of server and development environment, I think Linux wins out. If you want easy stuff that you are already familiar with, go ditch linux and return to Windows. Otherwise, keep trying! There is no silver bullet, the best OS is the one that you are most comfortable with.

[Thrillhouse]

Jciantar, try reading this thread:
http://www.linuxforums.org/forum/lin...ead-first.html
especially this post:
http://www.linuxforums.org/forum/lin...are-linux.html
I think it may clear a lot of things up.