Understanding GNU and the Free Software Movement
GNU is a free operating system that emphasizes users' freedom by allowing them to run, modify, and distribute software. It consists of GNU packages and also incorporates free software from third parties. The Free Software Movement advocates for user control over computing through free software, which is defined by four essential freedoms: the ability to run the software for any purpose, study and modify it, redistribute copies, and share modified versions. GNU, which stands for "GNU's Not Unix," was initiated in 1984 and is often paired with the Linux kernel to form the widely used GNU/Linux operating system. The development of GNU continues, including efforts on its own kernel, the GNU Hurd.
What freedoms does free software provide to users?
Free software grants users four essential freedoms: to run the software for any purpose, study and modify it, redistribute copies, and distribute modified versions to others.
How is GNU related to Linux?
GNU is an operating system that is typically used with the Linux kernel, forming the GNU/Linux operating system, which is commonly used by millions. Many people mistakenly refer to it simply as "Linux."
What is the goal of the Free Software Movement?
The Free Software Movement aims to ensure that users have control over their computing through the use of free software, as opposed to nonfree software that restricts user freedoms.