[newbie] Install Programs

[Carlo Martin C. Barrantes]

I am having problems installing any programs via KDE or Console.  For instance I go to http://www.tucows.com I download a program that is compatible with KDE.  Example, I downloaded Kexpress which is a newsreader.  Downloaded the program and it is on tar.gz format.  I gunzip it and tar it no problems thus far.  But when I read the readme and it tells to do the “./configure” and then do a “make” and next do a “make install” the installation does not succeed.  I have Linux-Mandrake 6.5 with Red Hat 6.1 installed.  I’m using KDE and I’m doing the super user login aside from my regular login.  Am I missing a step when I install?  Your feedback is welcome.  What should I do when I download a program I want to install.  Thank you.   Martin