"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
- The freedom to study how the program works, and adapt it to your needs
- The freedom to redistribute copies so you can help your neighbor
.
- The freedom to improve the program, and release your improvements to the
public, so that the whole community benefits
A program is free software if users have all of these freedoms.
The Free Software movement is 25 years old this year. Visit them
above to see a birthday video with Stephen Fry explaining why it is such a good thing!
Free Software
Platosys have eight years' experience of using only Free Software, particularly
the GNU-Linux operating system, the OpenOffice suite and the Firefox web-browser.
Escape the clutches of corporate babylon...
If you use Microsoft software on your computer, even if you didn't legally pay for it,
you are helping Microsoft, which (at best) is a US corporation with highly questionable
business practices, maintain its near monopoly.
You do not have to do this: there is a better way
The GNU-Linux Operating System is a mature, stable operating system which will run on
almost any computer capable of running Microsoft Windows. These days, it is easy to install
and there are compatible, free, programs which will do almost everything you could
need to do in Windows.
Excercise YOUR rights
Copyright protects authors and artists. Free Software works through the active
exercise of copyright by software writers to liberate their work, and to keep it free.
By using Free Software (instead of "borrowing" commercial software) you respect copyright
AND strike a blow against the oppressors...
No Geekery Needed
Eight years ago, getting GNU-Linux to run could take a lot of geekery. Not any more: it's usually
very straightforward, and if it doesn't work first time, there are loads of forums
where users are much more helpful than the typical Windows premium-rate helpline. And their
help is free!
But....
If you do want friendly and professional local hands-on help, and you're within
the Platosys service area (a fifteen minute cycle ride, which covers most of Clapham, Stockwell and Brixton) we
can help. We operate on a fixed-fee basis: no fix, no fee. You name a price you're willing to pay for what
you want us to achieve, and - if it's reasonable - the deal is done.
Brixton
We're proud to be based in Brixton, the multicultural heart of South London.
Brixton's creative diversity is a perfect match for the freedoms offered by free software
Free software help in Brixton
If you want hands-on help with free software in Brixton, call 077 1035 6416 to
discuss your requirements. We travel by bicycle.
Clapham
Clapham is famous for many things, not least the omnibus on which travels a mythical man.
That mythical man these days may well use Microsoft Windows, but he would better
reflect Clapham's traditions of liberty if he adopted free software - and he would
save himself a bob or two in licensing fees too.
Clapham was at the heart of the anti-slavery movement over two centuries ago.
Free software help in Clapham
If you want hands-on help with free software in Clapham, call 077 1035 6416 to
discuss your requirements. We travel by bicycle.
Stockwell
If you live in Stockwell, you probably don't want to be reminded about a poor Brazilian
electrician - but you will appreciate Stockwell's growing links with Brazil and
Portugal. Brazil is now one of the countries most supportive of the Free Software Movement, but
national links aside, free software will bring you more freedom from the corporate
dragons. Whether you live in one of Stockwell's Georgian squares, Victorian terraces or in one of its high-rise
buildings, strike a blow for liberty from the corporate yoke and ditch Microsoft today.
Free software help in Stockwell
If you want hands-on help with free software in Stockwell, call 077 1035 6416 to
discuss your requirements. We travel by bicycle.