With newer distributions, things are a lot easier than they used to be. Rarely do you have to edit configuration files by hand (only a few cases where its appropriate). If you're using Kubuntu, the root account is disabled by default and you'll need to use "sudo" to run commands as root. Open up a terminal and do Code: sudo apt-get update (enter your password) sudo apt-get install gaim sudo apt-get install amarok Those commands install GAIM (multi-protocol instant messenger, better than Kopete). Also amarok, which is a kick ass music player. You can use the command line to install lots of other software as well. To search for a particular package do Code: apt-cache search keyword keyword .... As AT said, make a thread if you get stuck and you'll get help quickly.