Application download and install

[purvis]

I appologize for being a beginner (and maybe an idiot) but I just can not figure out how to install new software on my computer. I have downloaded a few applications not found in the software store from some various places. After each download completes a nice window pops up showing me all the files that were included in the download. I have been unable to figure out where to go from there. One such example is songbird. Once I have everything downloaded, what do I do with it to make it install and then use it?
Thank you in advance.

[cbabbage]

The Synaptic package manager is the way to go, it will do everything for you. Go to System > Administration > Synaptic Package Manager. Put in your password, then look through the categories for software you want to install or use the search function to look for a particular package.
The package manager will download and install the package including all dependencies.

[Paqman]

As mentioned above, the Ubuntu repositories are always the first place to go for software. But if you need something that isn't available then your best options are:


Find a PPA with the software available
OR download a .deb file


PPAs are Private Package Archives, and work like mini repos where community members host pre-packaged software. After subscribing to a PPA you can download through the normal package manager and will get updates whenever they're released.

A .deb file is a simple "download and click to install" package that works a bit like a Windows .exe download.

[GROMS]

As mentioned above, the Ubuntu repositories are always the first place to go for software. But if you need something that isn't available then your best options are:


Find a PPA with the software available
OR download a .deb file


PPAs are Private Package Archives, and work like mini repos where community members host pre-packaged software. After subscribing to a PPA you can download through the normal package manager and will get updates whenever they're released.

A .deb file is a simple "download and click to install" package that works a bit like a Windows .exe download.

How do you go about "subscribing" to a PPA. I want to get the Shutter program as described in Linus Magazine. I'm using Hardey 8.2

[jfreak_]

just add the name of the ppa to your sources.lst file. The exact command is usually given with the ppa itself

[waspbr]

here is a very easy to use tutorial on how to install software on ubuntu

http://www.psychocats.net/ubuntu/installingsoftware

As for songbird, they are going to drop linux support, there is going to be a linux fork named nightingale, though that is going to take some time to come.

Meanwhile you might want to give banshee a try
http://banshee-project.org/