how to install and open downloads from usb stick on linux mate

[kendo1963]

hi
I am new to Linux and I have downloaded Linux apps from windows onto a usb stick for my Linux laptop and when I connect the usb stick to my Linux laptop, it reads it ok but I don't know how to install them to use on the laptop I have tried everything to no avail
can anyone help,,,,I am using Linux mate,,,,I need a total idiot guide as I have never used Linux before ,,,help please

I also need help on how to format a removable hard drive using Linux,,,,thanks

 

[Brickwizard]

Welcome to the forums

You cannot install windows programs directly to Linux, most [not all] windows programs can be run in wine or play on Linux,

 

[kendo1963]

can you tell me how to format an NTFS external hard drive on linux,,,thanks

 

[Brickwizard]

Which distribution are you using

 

[kendo1963]

Which distribution are you using

i don't know what you mean,,I am a beginner

 

[Brickwizard]

Linux is a Kernel which over 1000 distributions are built on, Mate is a GUI [graphical user interface ] that is what you see on your screen like your Windows desktop, which distribution did you download and install [Ubuntu/Mint/Debian/slacko/ & etc] ?

 

[kendo1963]

I just downloaded and installed Linux mate only as I assumed that would be enough ,,,,do I need to also install Ubuntu as I have that on cd rom,,,,,i am a total beginner with linux as I am used to windows ,

 

[Brickwizard]

Is that the cd you installed from?
if you open a terminal in your Linux [usually a $ in a black icon]
copy and paste cat /etc/issue and enter it should tell you which distribution and build [name or number]

 

[bob466]

Welcome to the Forum.