For windows converts and novice users its a bit difficult to install programs in Ubuntu. Though this is a fact, one thing less talked about is the abundance of programs in a single CD of Ubuntu. Compared to a Windows installation, an Ubuntu installation comes with lots of essential programs, though copyright restrictions play spoil sport in the case of certain audio and video formats.This tutorial explains how to install programs in Ubuntu easily.

There are many ways for installing programs in Ubuntu. It depends on the availability of the prgram to be installed. Some programs comes only as source code, some comes as .deb package( similar to the so called .exe in windows) and some can be installed very easily using synaptic package manager(if you have internet connection).

The simples way is to select  Applications ->Add/Remove

Synaptic Package Manager can be started by:System -> Administration -> Synaptic Package Manager

We can search for the name of the program/package.If the program is found, then check the box "Mark for Installation". Then click the "Apply" button.The selected program(s) will be automatically installed, along with its dependencies.

The major advantage of using this method is that it is easy to use.

These are command line tools.

Terminal can be started by: Applications -> Accessories -> Terminal

Usage:
sudo apt-get install
Eg:
sudo apt-get install php5

Replace apt-get with aptitude to use aptitude in command line.

3) INSTALLING .DEB PACKAGES

Several sites provide debian packages for installation in Ubuntu. Since Ubuntu is a debian derivative debian packages can be installed with a single click in ubuntu.

For example the .deb packages of firefox,skype, picasa,opers can be downloaded form their respective sites. We can install them on Ubuntu with a single click. (see the screen shot)

One disadvantage of this method is that in case of dependency conflicts, it would be difficult to install programs.

4) INSTALLING THE  SOURCE PACKAGE

 This method is relatively difficult when compared to others. Certain programs comes only as source. In such cases we have to compile it and then make it executable.

How to do it?

Make sure you have all the necessary development tools (i.e. libraries, compilers, headers):

sudo apt-get install build-essential
sudo apt-get install linux-headers-`uname -r`
Note: "uname -r" lists the current kernel you are using
 
Extract the file by right clicking it.

Build the package using the package's script (in this case the configure script), compile the package (make), and install the compiled package into your system (make install):

cd /path/to/extracted/sourcefiles
./configure (./command is used to execute a file)
sudo make
sudo make install

The best way is to read the README file that comes with the Source. It contains the detailed steps to follow.

NOTE:When you want to install a program first check whether it is  in the synaptic package manager. If not then search for the .deb package in the programs home page or other sites. As a last resort go for the source. If the program exists then the source also exists.

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