How to use my speed light on my nikon n80 slr?

I have tried cobinations of different flash settings and it won't flash. Only rhe assist light flashes… Please help.

Mentioning which speedlight would help. Checking the manual is always a good option

We need more info on flash make & model.

Does it have fresh batteries? Can you hear the capacitor charging up (high pitched whine)? Does it fire off camera (ie is there a test button).