Downloading/Installing programs

[Michael A Lane]

New to Linux, use to Windows.  I've purchased several books and each of them have strong points in using Linux, but each one of them are weak in explaining step by step downloading, installing the software so that it can be launched from the desk top.  I look for programs which have the "rpm" in the command line as well as "tz", "gz".  I download them into my home directory, which is probably not a good idea, then I use the "tar xzvf {program name}.  It opens and creates a new file, but that is as far as I know. I know there is a lot more to it but need help or better yet instructions on how to proceed.   Second question deals with Linux certification, one of the books directed you to www.linuxtraining.org.  Can you do this type of certification on your own at little cost, or is it the other way around? Michael Lane [EMAIL PROTECTED]