Ilmaisulaitteista

Ilmaisulaitteista, or free software, refers to software that is distributed with the freedom to use, study, modify, and distribute the software, and to distribute modified versions of the software. This concept is central to the free software movement, which advocates for the ethical and practical benefits of free software. The term "free" in this context refers to freedom, not price, as the software may be distributed at no cost or for a fee.

The four essential freedoms that define free software are:

1. The freedom to run the program as you wish, for any purpose.

2. The freedom to study how the program works, and change it to make it do what 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.

The GNU Project, initiated by Richard Stallman, is a prominent example of free software. The GNU General Public License (GPL) is a widely used free software license that ensures these freedoms are maintained.

Free software is often contrasted with proprietary software, which restricts these freedoms. While free software may be distributed at no cost, it is not necessarily free of charge; it can be sold or given away. The emphasis is on the freedoms it provides, not the price.

Free software has been instrumental in the development of the internet, operating systems, and various other technologies. It has also played a significant role in promoting open standards and interoperability.