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Libre Software

Libre Software, also known as Free Software, is a type of computer software distributed under terms that allow users to freely use, modify, and distribute the software. The term "libre" is derived from the Spanish word for "free" in the context of freedom, not price, distinguishing it from "gratis" software, which refers to software available at no cost.

Origins and Philosophy

The concept of libre software is deeply rooted in the Free Software Movement, initiated by Richard Stallman. Stallman, a prominent advocate of free software, founded the Free Software Foundation (FSF) in 1985. The movement promotes software that respects users' freedoms defined by The Four Essential Freedoms:

  1. The freedom to run the program for any purpose.
  2. The freedom to study how the program works and change it to do as you wish.
  3. The freedom to redistribute copies so you can help others.
  4. The freedom to distribute copies of your modified versions to others.

These freedoms ensure the software is not only free of cost but also free in terms of user autonomy and rights.

Libre vs. Open Source

Libre software is often associated with Free and Open-Source Software (FOSS), also known as Free/Libre and Open-Source Software (FLOSS). While both concepts emphasize similar freedoms, the term "open source" focuses more on the accessibility of the source code, whereas "libre" emphasizes user freedoms. The Open Source Initiative (OSI) provides a formal definition that complements the free software philosophy.

Software Licenses

Libre software is distributed under a variety of licenses that ensure these freedoms. Prominent examples include the GNU General Public License (GPL), developed by the FSF. Other licenses, such as the MIT License and the Apache License, also support open distribution but with varying terms and conditions.

Notable Libre Software Projects

Many software projects embrace the principles of libre software. Linux, a widely-used operating system kernel, and GNU, a comprehensive software system, are cornerstone projects of the free software movement. LibreOffice, a fork of OpenOffice, provides a comprehensive office suite comparable to proprietary alternatives.

Community and Development

The libre software movement has fostered a vibrant community of developers, users, and advocates. Events like the Libre Software Meeting facilitate collaboration and discussion among participants globally. Additionally, platforms such as GitHub and GitLab provide tools for collaborative software development and distribution.

Libre Software in Society

Libre software plays a significant role in various sectors, including education, government, and enterprise. Its adoption encourages transparency, security, and innovation. Governments and organizations worldwide are increasingly recognizing the value of libre software in fostering a culture of openness and collaboration.

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