Free and Open Source Software

Free and open-source software (FOSS) plays a vital role in what we do at Free Geek Toronto. FOSS refers to software that is both free to use and is publicly available. This gives users true freedom; anyone can view, modify, distribute, and improve the software, without paying for it.

“Free” software is the "freedom" to use the software in whichever way that works best for you. To run it how you want, share it with others, and improve it to fit your needs. “Open source” software means the source code, the instructions that make the software function, are publicly accessible. This allows for;

• Developers to audit it for security and privacy
• Communities to fix bugs or add features
• Anyone to build up, without starting from scratch

FOSS is important for many reasons. It is especially important for our organization and our mission at Free Geek Toronto because it makes technology accessible to all, enhances security and privacy, and promotes sustainability. 

We’re committed to not only reducing e-waste but also to promoting digital equity, and one of the ways we do that is by installing free and open-source software to the devices we refurbish. FOSS allows us to install secure, reliable, and user friendly operating systems and applications without the high cost. By choosing FOSS, we’re not just extending the life of old hardware, we’re also empowering our community with tools that are flexible and accessible to all.

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