how do i move my programs and files from my previous OS to ubuntu?

[jared_e]

I just installed Ubuntu on my computer along with my previous OS, windows vista, but there are none of the programs or files that i had on vista when i explore Ubuntu. My goal is to remove the windows vista OS entirely from my hard drive, but i want to keep some of the programs and files that i have on it. is there a way to move the programs and files?

[bobtfish]

Files should be relatively easy. I haven't got mine like this any more, but if I remember correctly, you can (while in Ubuntu) click the Places menu at the top, go to Computer, and in there you should be able to open the Windows part of your hard drive (it might have a weird name, but should be there). Then you can just move over the files you want.

Programs are a different matter. Programs that work on Windows don't work on Ubuntu, but...
You have various possibilities. Some programs do have versions that will run on Ubuntu (e.g. Firefox, VLC). For other programs, there are usually alternatives (e.g. OpenOffice.org is a set of programs with pretty much the same functionality as MS Office).
For other programs that you really can't do without, you may wish to have a look at a piece of software called Wine, which, to a certain extent, allows you to run Windows versions of programs. However, I would say this is a bit of a last resort, as it can be a bit tricky getting some things to work, and for a new user it's going to be easier to find an alternative.

Look around the Software Centre (Applications -> Ubuntu Software Centre) which allows you to look for and easily install a large amount of software for a lot a tasks. What programs are of main interest to you?

Chris

[oldfred]

Several links to sites that show alternatives. Understand that programs will not be identical but often offer equivalent functionality. Sometimes better, sometimes not quite as good. If some specific feature or game is your requirement you may still have to dual boot. I am still trying to wean myself from quicken as kmymoney & gnucash offer much but not all of the same features.

Linux alternatives to windows apps
http://www.osalt.com/
http://www.linux.org/apps/
http://www.linuxappfinder.com/
Windows to linux software alternatives:
Here are two links that might be useful:
http://www.osalt.com/
http://www.linuxalt.com/
Here's an oldie, but still relevant:
http://linuxappfinder.com/alternatives