FSF

The Free Software Foundation (FSF) is a nonprofit organization founded in 1985 by Richard Stallman to promote computer user freedom and to defend the rights of all free software users. Its central aim is to ensure that software remains free (as in freedom) and that users can run, study, modify, and share software.

The FSF supports and coordinates the GNU Project, develops licensing standards such as the GNU General Public License (GPL) and its variants, and maintains the Free Software Definition. Through education and advocacy, the FSF promotes free software principles in public policy, education, and industry. It also administers the Free Software Directory, a catalog of software that meets the Free Software Definition.

Notable programs include Defective by Design, an anti-DRM campaign, and the Respects Your Freedom hardware certification program. The FSF is governed by a board of directors and relies on donations, memberships, and grants to fund its activities, including licensing advocacy, outreach, and developer resources.