What is Public Domain Software?
Free thins is very helpful for our life. Public Domain Software (PDS) refers to software that is not copyrighted and that anyone can use for free without restrictions. Under PDS guidelines and laws governing software development licensing the author(s) create their software with the intention of making it available in the public domain so that others can use their software in whole, in part, or in combination with other software applications without worrying about copyright restrictions.
It is important to still bear in mind that public domain software does not necessarily allow a user to access, use, or alter source codes, but in some cases, it may, but it is made available for use whether or not it can be altered.
What is Not Included in PDS?
PDS does not include product promotions of free software, 'free ware,' or 'shareware' all of which have use restrictions and copyrights.
Where to Find Public Domain Software ?
SourceForge offers an extensive directory of software available under a number of licenses including Public Domain, Creative Commons Attribution, OSI-Approved Open Source, and others.
Two other great resources to discovering new public domain and open-source software are:
• Gnu.org
• CNet
You can also find use-specific, compatible freebies within certain dashboards of other applications. For example, if you use WordPress, log in and look for new plugins. Many of these have been created for free use without any restrictions. It is helpful for you.
The same is true with Firefox where you can download from the tens of thousands of available apps and support features including developer tools.
A Few Examples of Open Source Software Applications
• WordPress - A free, content management and blogging software platform.
• Firefox - A web browser
• LINUX - an open-source operating system based on UNIX
• Apache - a web server software that is now the most commonly used throughout the world.
• Thunderbird - Developed by Mozilla Foundation (they also are responsible for the web browser, Firefox, Thunderbird offers platform for email, chat, and email.
• OpenOffice
• KOffice - integrated office suite that includes wordpressing, spreadsheet, database functions and more, and
• SquirrelMail - An email handler anyone can use and is often offered (free) by email host company such as Dreamhost.
How Can I Tell if Something is Under Public Domain?
If there are absolutely no restrictions or copyrights on software applications, it is considered public domain software.
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