Can anyone help me out with plugins?
 

I dont know any html, xml, php or any coding, and i also dont know the first thing i do when it comes to adding a plugin (and i hear its pretty simple so i dont want my coder to always have to do it for me) If someone could please give me a step-by-step tutorial on how to add a plugin (including what i need to do in my server) I would greatly appreciate it :)

Try http://www.vbulletin.com/docs/html/plugin_system :)

There are explanations and screenshots to help get you going.

I can tell you what i do.
I do nothing with the server, unless there are files that should be uploaded.
There are always , ore most of the hacks a "how to do" file with the pack.
Upload the product in the Product Manager with the supplied XML file.
I would suggest, that you start with small projects. And i recomand all the hacks from Paul M. They are quick and helpfull.
Dont try out a big hack in the beginning. ;)

i have tried to import an xml file from a plugin i d/l but when i click import, the page says "unspecified file chosen" although, on top of this same page, importing file, please wait? It doesnt make sense and im bout to tear my hair out! AHHHH! lmao

You need to do this:

ACP > Plugin System > Download/Upload Plugins > Scroll to the bottom > Choose "Browse" > Locate the file on your PC > Click "Open" > then click Import. That will upload the file for you.

You can also go through the steps above and type in: ./includes/xml/pluginsnamehere.xml after you have uploaded the xml file via FTP to the server. It needs to be uploaded to your /forum/includes/xml/ folder.

If the file being imported isn't a plugin but is a product, it will tell you.

I have added the Google/Yahoo sitemap generator (it is a product and i have added it succesfully i think) it shows it being there in the list of products i have, but is there something else i do to use the product (or does this particular product work on its own when added to the vb?)

im am sorry for posting so much, but im just so close to getting this! lol I added your googlepopup product Rich, but i imported the xml file (which worked) but it doesnt have the Google It icon under the smilies (do i have to do somethin else to use this product, such as import all php files or something?)