What is GNU?
GNU is a Unix-like operating system that is free software —it respects your freedom. You can install Linux-based versions of GNU which are entirely free software.
The GNU Project was launched in 1984 to develop the GNU system. The name “GNU” is a recursive acronym for “GNU's Not Unix!”. "GNU" is pronounced g'noo , as one syllable, like saying "grew" but replacing the rwith n.
A Unix-like operating system is a software collection of applications, libraries, and developer tools, plus a program to allocate resources and talk to the hardware, known as a kernel.
The Hurd, GNU's own kernel , is some way from being ready for daily use. Thus, GNU is typically used today with a kernel called Linux. This combination is the GNU/Linux operating system . GNU/Linux is used by millions, though many call it "Linux" by mistake .
What is free software?
“ Free software ” is a matter of liberty, not price. To understand the concept, you should think of “free” as in “free speech”, not as in “free beer”.
Free software is a matter of the users' freedom to run, copy, distribute, study, change and improve the software.More precisely, it refers to four kinds of freedom, for the users of the software:
- The freedom to run the program, for any purpose (freedom 0).
- The freedom to study how the program works, and adapt it to your needs (freedom 1). Access to the source code is a precondition for this.
- The freedom to redistribute copies so you can help your neighbor (freedom 2).
- The freedom to improve the program, and release your improvements to the public, so that the whole community benefits (freedom 3). Access to the source code is a precondition for this.
Take Action
- Support current FSF campaigns.
- Join the protests against ACTA, the European Anti-Sharing Directive IPRED and other abusive internet laws .
- Watch and share this movie: Patent Absurdity—made possible by FSF associate members like you.
- Fight against software patents: worldwide, and Europe.
- Call on WIPO to change its name and mission.
- Support the efforts on net neutrality in Europe, in the USA and in Canada.
- Students! Claim a refund on your unused Microsoft Windows licences.
- Add to the Free Software Directory.
- More action items.
