Best Free and Open Source Software Tools for 2025 – Download & Use

The term “free software“ can refer to two main categories:

1. Free as in Freedom (FOSS – Free and Open Source Software):

These are software programs that give users the freedom to use, study, modify, and distribute the code. The emphasis is on freedom, not price.

Examples:

• Linux (e.g., Ubuntu, Fedora) – Free operating systems

• LibreOffice – Alternative to Microsoft Office

• GIMP – Image editing like Photoshop

• Blender – 3D modeling and animation

• Audacity – Audio editing

• VLC Media Player – Multimedia player

• Mozilla Firefox – Web browser

• Shotcut or Kdenlive – Video editing

• Brave Browser – Privacy-focused browser

• OBS Studio – Screen recording & live streaming

2. Free as in No Cost (Freeware):

These are programs that cost nothing to use, but may not offer the same freedoms as open source. You can’t legally modify or redistribute the code unless allowed.

Examples:

• Google Chrome – Free browser (not open-source)

• Zoom – Free plan available for video conferencing

• Spotify – Free tier with ads

• Skype – Free video calls

• DaVinci Resolve – Professional video editing (free version available)

• Notepad++ – Code editor (open source, but also often considered freeware)

Free Software Licenses (for developers):

If you’re considering creating or distributing free software, common open-source licenses include:

• GNU General Public License (GPL)

• MIT License

• Apache License

• BSD License

Read : What are the best Antivirus softwares