Point a new switcher in the right direction?

So I decided to take the so-called plunge and got myself a basic macbook. For simple tasks (which I got it for) it's startlingly easy. However, I'm confused as to how to download/install/run new programs.

What I mean is, when I downloaded Firefox, it came as a .dmg file. Opening it created a.. "drive" with a firefox image emblazoned upon it placing it on my desktop, along with the .dmg file. Can I move the two into the harddrive to clean up my desktop? Which do I keep? Does .dmg = .exe ?

I guess the question I'm asking is, if I were to clean up my desktop, how would I go about doing it. Do I need to keep the .dmg files somewhere? If so, where do you suggest putting it. I apologize for such basic questions, but I couldn't find any answers easily across the boards or on google. Anyone feel generous enough to point me towards the right place?

 

Here is a quick video: How to Install Firefox (Mac).

After you're done installing you can eject the drive (click the eject icon) and delete the .dmg file from your desktop. You also have the option of dragging Firefox from the Applications folder to your Dock to create a Shortcut.

More good videos here.

Apple Sites: Switch 101 & Mac 101.

 

Installing most applications on the Mac is very easy. Install files come in .dmg, open them and a virtual drive opens. A window will pop out with an icon for the application. Drag that icon to the Applications folder in your Macintosh HD. You installed the app! Its that simple.

After that, eject the virtual drive, and you can delete the .dmg file. You can keep them if you want, but I just delete them to keep my MacBook clean.

Oh, take note though: not all applications install in this way (just dragging an icon to the Applications folder). Some of the larger applications that require a EULA will install with an InstallShield-like installation wizard.

And eternal: those are my sites!! Just kidding, I'm just happy more people are helping out the Apple forum .

 

.dmg files are for Macintosh and .exe is for Windows so yes they are the same thing however you handle them differently for installing new software. After you double click the .dmg file and the white drive appears double click the white drive and open it up. Drag the file inside either to your desktop or the Applications folder and that's it, the program is installed.
If inside the white drive is an orange .pkg file then just double click that and it will self install.
After installation drag the white drive and the .dmg file to the trash, no need to keep them.
The reason for the white drive is because on a Mac you can actually run program from within the white drive. This is nice way to test out the program before fully installing it.

 

oh excellent! thanks for that.

 

Guilty as charged.

Evidence:
Exhibit A
Exhibit B

And there are loads more!