In this course, we will explain what free software and open-source software are and highlight the differences between them, explore why these models matter in academic and professional contexts, and examine how collaborative development reshapes software creation; students will see examples like the Linux operating system and other widely used tools, understand the practical benefits such as transparency, flexibility, cost savings, and community-driven innovation, and gain insight into both the ethical motivations behind free software and the real-world impact of open source on modern technology.