problem installing ubuntu on compaq laptop (i'm a newbie)

[michiganitis]

Hello,

I just tried installing Ubuntu 10.whatever on my Compaq laptop. After install, it says I must restart. I hit the button the restart...and everything goes ok for a sec. Then the computer pops open the cd/dvd tray by itself and it generates the following message:

[ 3396.664581] end_request: i/o error, dev sr0, sector 523992
[ 3396.664581] end_request: i/o error, dev sr0, sector 523992
[ 3396.664581] end_request: i/o error, dev sr0, sector 523992
[ 3396.664581] end_request: i/o error, dev sr0, sector 523992
[ 3396.664581] end_request: i/o error, dev sr0, sector 523993
[ 3396.664581] end_request: i/o error, dev sr0, sector 523993
[ 3396.664581] end_request: i/o error, dev sr0, sector 523993
[ 3396.664581] end_request: i/o error, dev sr0, sector 523993
.
.
.
.

It goes on like that for quite some time. The computer then is frozen, I cannot do anything. I have the force a shutdown and turn the laptop back on. Upon restarting, it did load up to the desktop. What could be the problem? Should I be concerned?

Also, upon first boot...it mentioned some things it could not find/load and to go to some site. But it flashed by so quick, I couldn't read it. Am I missing drivers?

And lastly...how can I connect to my wireless dsl modem? My network doesn't show up when I click on the wireless connect symbol in the upper right.

Thanks for helping out a linux newbie!!!!

[davidmohammed]

probably not to worry - especially as you can get to the desktop.

Go to Administration - Hardware drivers.

Are you offered a hardware driver to install your wireless card? Remember, make sure you are connected via wired connection before you do this.