Help!!!!

[Jamilah]

So... this computer was given to me with ubuntu and libre office already on it (along with 125 other apps I know nothing about). I cannot watch or listen to any media... I cannot install adobe or any other program... I cannot upgrade to 11.04... I cannot get administrative access... I can't do ANYTHING. Everything comes up as an error. I am frustrated and don't know what else to do. If there are ANY suggestions, please offer them. I am supposed to start online classes soon and my computer has a mind of its own. HELP!!!!!!!!!
I am very computer savvy, but not as familiar with linux/ Ubuntu/ Gnome...etc. Used to PCs and Macs. WHAT SHOULD I DO???? :confused: ](*,)

[Megaptera]

Who gave it to you? Can't they run through the basics with you?
Can you tell what version of Ubuntu it is?

Adobe - have a look at Ubuntu restricted extras http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ubuntu-restricted-extras

Do you know how to install or would you like help?

Cheers.

[oldos2er]

You'll need admin access before you can install any packages. See http://psychocats.net/ubuntu/resetpassword on how to reset a password for your user account (you will use the same password to grant yourself admin access).

Which version of Ubuntu is on the computer?

[1clue]

Boot off a CDROM and wipe the hard drive, put whatever you like on it.

If it was just given to you then there's nothing on there you need anyway.

[vinayaksawant]

You can install new version of ubuntu 11.04 via cd or usb to resolve this problem just download image from ubuntu site and burn it on cd or make bootable usb by unnetbootin
'http://unetbootin.sourceforge.net/'

Now after fresh installation you can install any pakage with ease.
and for media
+ Install gstreamer plugins