So, I tried loading the standard edition Fallout 3 onto my computer, and it went through the installation process, but when I tried to access it via the "Bethesda Softworks" file, Fallout 3 wasn't there. I had previously loaded Oblivion onto the same computer, and it was the only item listed. I assumed it was just an error with having Oblivion and Fallout 3 under the same file, so I uninstalled Oblivion and deleted all the Fallout 3 files under "My Games" (Saves, preferences, etc) and tried to re-install the game. But when I put the disc in again, the play menu opened instead of the install menu, and it reloaded the files under "My Games". The game will play with the disc inserted, but if I remove the disc or exit the menu that opens when I insert the disc, I have no way of accessing the game except to reopen and close my disk drive.
I apologize if I have made some obvious error with an obvious solution, I only own two PC games and otherwise only use my computer to type essays, so please, don't rule out the obvious solutions, and Thank you for any help or advice.

click start ,All programs , Bethesda Softworks , fallout 3 ... Uninstall Fallout 3

Then reinstall ... when you get the option ... select "Custom"

Install the game outside of Program files ... Example "C:\Bethesda Softworks\Fallout 3

You will always need the disc to play the game. The only way around this is to install F.O.S.E. http://fose.silverlock.org/ this will allow you to play without the disc.