Vabavaraliselt

Vabavaraliselt is an Estonian term that translates to "freely available" or "openly accessible" in English. It refers to content, software, or resources that are distributed under licenses that permit users to access, use, modify, and distribute them without significant restrictions. This concept is closely related to the principles of free and open-source software, but it can also apply to other forms of creative work such as text, images, music, and educational materials.

The key characteristic of vabavaraliselt content is the granting of broad permissions to users. Typically, these permissions include the freedom to run the software or use the content for any purpose, to study how it works and adapt it to one's needs, to redistribute copies, and to improve the software or content and release those improvements to the public. These freedoms are usually enshrined in specific licenses, such as various Creative Commons licenses for content or the GNU General Public License for software.

The availability of vabavaraliselt resources fosters collaboration, innovation, and wider access to knowledge and tools. It allows individuals and organizations to build upon existing work, share their own creations, and contribute to a common pool of knowledge. This model promotes transparency and reduces barriers to entry for individuals and smaller entities who might otherwise face significant costs or legal hurdles in accessing or developing such resources. The term emphasizes the unhindered nature of access and usage, distinguishing it from purely free of charge (tasuta) offerings that may still carry restrictions on modification or redistribution.