Sept 3, 2003

Free Software Licensing in Context

Free Software Definition

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• 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).

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Copyright © 2003, Free Software Foundation. Verbatim copying permitted provided this notice is preserved.