Linux Under GNU GPL Freedom | Generated by AI
Question: Which operating system can be freely modified and redistributed by any individual or organization as long as they comply with the GNU General Public License?
Answer:
The correct answer is D: Linux.
Explanation:
- Linux is an open-source operating system kernel that is distributed under the GNU General Public License (GPL). This license grants users the freedom to run, study, share, and modify the software. Anyone can access the source code, make changes, and redistribute their versions, provided they also release their modifications under the same GPL terms.
- UNIX (Option A) is a proprietary operating system originally developed at AT&T Bell Labs. While there are open-source variants (like BSD), the original UNIX and many commercial versions are not governed by the GPL and restrict free modification and redistribution.
- NetWare (Option B) is a proprietary network operating system developed by Novell. It is not open source and does not operate under the GPL.
- Windows (Option C) is a proprietary operating system developed by Microsoft. Its source code is closed, and users do not have the legal right to modify or redistribute it freely.
Therefore, Linux is the only option listed that adheres to the principles of the GNU General Public License regarding free modification and redistribution.
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