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Step 1
Obtain some software. It doesn't really matter what software it is or what the software does, but what does matter is how you obtain it. You will probably install software one of two ways: from a CD or download it off the Internet. If you have a CD, insert it and continue to Step 3. If you downloaded the software, you must unpack it.
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Step 2
Unpack your downloaded software. When you download a program, it is typically compressed using a ZIP format (.zip), a Stuffit format (.sit or .sitx) or a disk image (.dmg). ZIP files are handled natively by OS X so just double-click it and wait for it to mount. Stuffit files are unpacked using Stuffit Expander, which you can download free from the Stuffit website. Disk images are probably the most common format you will find for OS X, and they works like virtual disks. Double-click the disk image to mount it.
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Step 3
Find your program in the devices section of finder. It should appear in the same section as your hard drive. It may look like a disk drive, CD or another icon, depending on the manufacturer. Open the device by clicking on it.
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Step 4
Install the software. You should find either an application bundle or an installer in the disk image you just opened. If it is an application bundle, drag the program to your desired location, usually the "Applications" folder, and drop it there. Installers require you to run an install program, similar to many programs on Windows. There will probably be instruction on which type of program it is in the disk image.
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Step 5
Open the program to insure that it is functioning properly. If it is, you can drag the icon to your dock or make an alias to put on your desktop so it will be easily accessible.
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Step 6
Eject the disk image and clean up after you have verified that the program is working. This can be done by clicking the eject button next to the device in the finder, or you can drag the device on your desktop to your trash. You can also throw away the ZIP, Stuffit or DMG file at this point.
