What is FLOSS?
FOSS/FLOSS stands for Free/Libre Open Source Software.
FLOSS is a different model of software development. The key advantage of this model is that everyone has access to the source code of an application. This enables hundreds of technical people, many working as volunteers with no commercial incentive, to collaborate on continual enhancements to software.
When everybody code how can you avoid messing things up?
In addition, unlike many proprietary products like Windows, FLOSS is often based on open standards, enabling interoperability of software and enhancing the ability of different software to communicate with each other. This prevent "lock-in," you are free to change your software with ease and modify it anyway you want. Hence FLOSS is free as in freedom.
How and when did FLOSS started?
FOSS was originated by computer science researchers as early as the 1970s, in academia, where developers popularized the idea of copyrighting one's computer programs with a statement mandating that the software would always be open to the public. As a result of this movement the practice of "giving back to the community" by writing FLOSS was adopted by many software developers. In the early 1990s, a Finnish researcher named Linus Torvalds built upon previous work, created what is now known as Linux.
Is anybody using FLOSS?
Throughout the world medium and large corporations are now using FLOSS to carry out some of their IT needs, and some have chosen to replace proprietary software entirely. Many nonprofit organizations, such as Greenpeace and Amnesty International, depend on FLOSS. Some of the largest web services companies, such as Google, Yahoo, Facebook and others completely rely on open source software for their infrastructure.
How can I get support on FLOSS?
In addition, there has been an evolution of support for FLOSS, to install, maintain and support FLOSS implementations in organizations. The best source to find help is the community, helping out one another.
What is MOSS?
What does MOSS stand for?
MOSS stand for Maldives Open Source Society. MOSS is an NGO registered in the Republic of Maldives aimed at advocating the benefits of Open Source Software. In addition to that MOSS undertakes Open Source Software movements like the localization projects.
How can I be a member of MOSS?
An Application Form has been designed and we had to make some changes. Once these new forms are available, you 'll be able to download the form and submit to one of the members of the steering team.
How can I contribute to MOSS?
First of all MOSS is a community, we welcome anyone and value each and every contribution that you can make. It is more of a question of what can you offer for MOSS. Though it helps, you do not need to be technically savvy to join MOSS! To join MOSS the easiest way would be to join one of our weekly meetings and introduce yourself. Alternatively you can join the MOSS Mailing list and offer help. Or you can join one of the initiatives of MOSS, like the Localization and Translation Project.
How can I contribute to MOSS Magazine?
The MOSS: Your Monthly FLOSS Magazine, is a result of lot of helping hands and contributions, we are grateful for it. For MOSS to stay alive we need your Articles, Opinions, Open Letters and Stories. We also need Reviews (games, apps & hardware), How-To articles (on any FLOSS subject) and any questions, or suggestions, you may have.
Just send an email to magazine@moss.org.mv
What are the benefits of being a MOSS member?
By being a member of MOSS you are taking part in MOSS Vision, Mission and its future. You can take full pride in helping, educating, sharing, collaborating and empowering people with FLOSS and what it stands for, Software Freedom! At the same time you can learn from each other and empower yourself by the same means.
Do I have to pay for MOSS membership?
As of today, MOSS Membership fees are not collected from any Member, though we do utilize a lot of financial contributions from MOSS members as and when needed. We are in the process of finalizing the standard operation procedures before we collect membership fees.
Who can use FLOSS?
What do I need to start using FLOSS?
You need to find the solution you are interested in. Just download it, install and start using it. There is a great place where you can find Open Source alternatives. Click here or hereto find the alternatives you are interested in.
How can I learn FLOSS software I want to use?
If you atleast know about Google it should suffice you to find more about it. Alternatively, you can try the huge collection of FLOSS manuals and MOSS monthly magazine.