please help a dummy

Hi all
Ive been having problems with windows latley and everytime I call support for the first 20 minutes or so all they do is try to ram windows 8 down my throat.
When I think they understand IDONT WANT 8 I just want to fix what I have they tell me "well your going to have to spend a couple hundred dollars on software so why dont you just upgrade to windows 8.
Well I ripped that crap out by the roots and Installed Mageia 2 32 bit gnome (disc from ebay) and Im not sorry I did it but Im having trouble.
disc came with a tutorial cd but it was for a different version (no help)sooooooooo
Here is what I need if you can help or at least tell me where to look
#1where can I find a list of terms and definitions?
#2 can I put folders on the desk top?
# 3 I need to hook up my printer but cant find an option to install new hardware
#4 I cant find a list of installed hardware(modem,dvd player ect)
#5 is there a spell check on this thing
#6 dvd player wont read any disc except Mageia install disc
#7 I cant down load anything from the internet. (i think I just cant figure out what to do in the download screen)
Other than that this os seems to be ok. I can download my camera and list things on ebay and bonanza (this is the main use for my pc.) read and send email ect.
Any help or advice would be appreicated.
Ive been having problems with windows latley and everytime I call support for the first 20 minutes or so all they do is try to ram windows 8 down my throat.
When I think they understand IDONT WANT 8 I just want to fix what I have they tell me "well your going to have to spend a couple hundred dollars on software so why dont you just upgrade to windows 8.
Well I ripped that crap out by the roots and Installed Mageia 2 32 bit gnome (disc from ebay) and Im not sorry I did it but Im having trouble.
disc came with a tutorial cd but it was for a different version (no help)sooooooooo
Here is what I need if you can help or at least tell me where to look
#1where can I find a list of terms and definitions?
#2 can I put folders on the desk top?
# 3 I need to hook up my printer but cant find an option to install new hardware
#4 I cant find a list of installed hardware(modem,dvd player ect)
#5 is there a spell check on this thing
#6 dvd player wont read any disc except Mageia install disc
#7 I cant down load anything from the internet. (i think I just cant figure out what to do in the download screen)
Other than that this os seems to be ok. I can download my camera and list things on ebay and bonanza (this is the main use for my pc.) read and send email ect.
Any help or advice would be appreicated.