How compile and install softwares from source in linux?

Hi!
Guys, i'm a noob when it comes to linux and related stuff... I'm in huge trouble and i need help... I've refered the Ubuntu guide on TA and successfully installed the Ubuntu 8.10 on my computer. Now the problem is, whenever i download a software, maximum time i get is the filename.tar.gz archive. now when i extract it it gives me many files like "make" "install" but without any extensions. I understand that i need to compile and then install the software... But my question is, How the Freak am i suppose to compile...?? I've googled a lot and didn't find any solution... help me guys!

Hey there!

Thats a basic and quite simple procedure. Have a look :

• Download the file say software.tar.gz
• Extract the files :
  
  Code:

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  tar -zxvf software.tar.gz

  ---

• Go to the folder where the files are extracted :
  
  Code:

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  cd software

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• Now Make the file :
  
  Code:

  ---

  ./configure
make
sudo make install

  ---

• Now Run the software :
  
  Code:

  ---

  software

  ---

• Done!

Hey!
Thanks Solo, that was really cool...! I have a doubt, why isn't all the softwares pre-compiled? why does they want users to compile and install? this makes noobs run away from these stuffs...! Anyways thanks a lot for your help!
Appreciate it..!:notworthy

Hey again!
The logic is pretty simple... the sources are very smaller in size and not that difficult to install... bu the pre-compiled files are greater in size and not all end users have pretty fast internet connections, generally in india where "Capping" of speed is common...!
Anyways All the best! Enjoy!