new to linux

[bernie182]

hi everyone

i am new to linux just bought the acer netbook with linux but I do not know how to download things like MSN and Skype it just goes to this extract page thing?? Please can anyone help me.

Thanks

[jayd512]

Welcome to LinuxForums!

Have you looked in your package manager for these apps? Linux runs things a bit differently than Windows. So instead of going to a programs homepage, you should try to check out the package manager for installation. It will automatically install any dependencies and libraries that may be needed. Seeing as you posted in the Ubuntu section, that would mean that you're going to be looking for Synaptic. You should find it either in your Applications or System menu.

[whych]

Haven't used ubuntu for a while but try the system>admin>software or some such option. You shuld get a list of search options or depending on how you filter it, a complete list of available software.
Also, you should enable the auto/look for updates option to keep the system up to date.

[rokytnji]

to install Skype 2.0 on Ubuntu 8.10 simply head to the Skype Download Page and click the Ubuntu 7.04+ listing. This should provide you with a package to save to your Desktop. Once the download is finished simply double-click the file and the installation will take off.

Pidgin which is already installed should handle MSN. Just google how to Pidgin.