Group: Manchester/FAQ

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions with Answers

Questions we get asked and the answers we give.

Q: What free software is there for the Microsoft Windows OS?

The OpenDisc is a good start. Their ideals differ from ours, they don't believe in paying for software. But they have a good list of programs, divided in sections of design, games, internet, Multimedia, productivity and utilities.

The FSF have a page, Free Software replacements for proprietary applications on the Microsoft Windows OS.

Cygwin describes itself as "a Linux-like environment for Windows.". It basically gives you the power of a GNU/POSIX system on Windows. It has a package management system with large repository of software.

• MFS personal recommendations
  • Web browsing - Firefox
  • Email - Thunderbird
  • Media Player - VLC
  • GNU system - Cygwin

Q: How can you make money from free software?

The purpose of a free software licence is to give the user freedom. It is not about giving away software at zero price. It is not about not making money.

• 101 Ways to Make Money off Open Source. Some ideas for making money, though many of them are not freedom loving. Posted by David Kaufman to the FSB mailing list.
• How To Get Paid For Copyleft Art. Some/all can be translated to software. Posted by Dave Crossland to the FSB mailing list.