# BSD locate

> computer program

**Wikidata**: [Q126284758](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q126284758)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/bsd-locate

## Summary
BSD locate is a computer program and an instance of free software that serves as an implementation of locate. It is defined by the four freedoms characteristic of free software, allowing users to freely run, study, change, and distribute the program and modified versions. This implementation is distinct from both the generic term "locate" and the GNU locate implementation.

## Key Facts
- BSD locate is a **computer program**.
- It is an instance of **free software**.
- It functions as an **implementation of locate**.
- It is explicitly listed as **different from** "locate" and "GNU locate".
- It uses the alias **locate**.
- As free software, it is distributed under terms that allow users to freely run, study, change, and distribute it, including modified versions.
- It is part of the **free software movement** and the **open source movement**.
- It is classified as the opposite of **proprietary software**.
- It is a subclass of **freely redistributable software**, **source-available software**, and **open-source software**.

## FAQs
### Q: What is BSD locate?
A: BSD locate is a computer program classified as free software that acts as an implementation of locate. It is distinct from other implementations such as GNU locate.

### Q: Is BSD locate considered free software?
A: Yes, BSD locate is an instance of free software, meaning it grants users the rights to run, study, change, and distribute the software, including modified versions.

### Q: How does BSD locate differ from other locate implementations?
A: The provided data explicitly distinguishes BSD locate from "locate" and "GNU locate," categorizing them as separate entities despite the shared name and functionality.

### Q: What are the user permissions for BSD locate?
A: As free software, BSD locate allows users to freely run, study, change, and distribute the program. It is characterized by the "four freedoms" associated with the free software movement.

## Why It Matters
BSD locate matters because it provides a specific implementation of the locate utility within the free software ecosystem. By being classified as free software, it ensures that users retain the essential liberties to run, study, modify, and redistribute the code, positioning it as an alternative to proprietary models. Its distinction from GNU locate highlights the diversity of implementations available under the free software umbrella, offering users options that adhere to the principles of the open source and free software movements.

## Notable For
- Being an **implementation of locate**.
- Being explicitly classified as **free software**.
- Being distinguished from **GNU locate** and the generic term **locate**.
- Adhering to the **four freedoms** (run, study, change, distribute).
- Serving as a facet of a **computer program** within the software category.

## Body
### Definition and Core Idea
BSD locate is a computer program that serves as an implementation of locate. As an instance of free software, it is distributed under terms that allow users to freely run, study, change, and distribute the software, including modified versions. This aligns it with the core principles of the free software movement, which emphasizes user permissions over restriction.

### Classification and Type
The program is categorized as an instance of both a computer program and free software. Within the hierarchy of software categories, free software is a subclass of freely redistributable software, source-available software, and open-source software. Consequently, BSD locate inherits these classifications, placing it within the broader open source movement while remaining distinct from proprietary software.

### Distinctions and Aliases
BSD locate is specifically identified by the alias "locate." However, the data explicitly lists it as different from "locate" and "GNU locate." This distinction suggests that while the names may overlap or the function may be similar, BSD locate is treated as a separate entity from the generic concept of locate and the specific GNU variant.

### Movement and Philosophy
As a piece of free software, BSD locate is part of the free software movement and the open source movement. It is characterized by the "four freedoms," which define the software not just by its availability, but by what users are permitted to do with it. It stands as the opposite of proprietary software, providing a model that emphasizes redistribution and modification rights.