# GAP

> computer algebra system for computational discrete algebra

**Wikidata**: [Q677161](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q677161)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GAP_(computer_algebra_system))  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/gap

## Summary
GAP is a computer algebra system designed for computational discrete algebra, particularly focused on group theory and related mathematical structures. It was first developed in 1986 and is available for Windows, macOS, and Unix-like operating systems. The system is free and open-source, licensed under the GNU General Public License.

## Key Facts
- **Type**: Computer algebra system and programming language for discrete algebra.
- **Inception**: 1986, with the first public release in 1988.
- **Operating Systems**: Runs on Microsoft Windows, macOS, and Unix-like systems.
- **License**: GNU General Public License, version 2.0 or later.
- **Latest Version**: 4.12.2 (released on 2022-12-18).
- **Aliases**: Groups, Algorithms and Programming, GAP System.
- **File Extensions**: .gd, .gi, .g.
- **Website**: [https://www.gap-system.org/](https://www.gap-system.org/).
- **Source Code**: Hosted on GitHub at [https://github.com/gap-system/gap](https://github.com/gap-system/gap).

## FAQs
### Q: What is GAP used for?
A: GAP is primarily used for computational discrete algebra, including group theory, permutation groups, and related mathematical computations. It is widely used in academic research and education.

### Q: Is GAP free to use?
A: Yes, GAP is free and open-source software, licensed under the GNU General Public License, version 2.0 or later.

### Q: On which platforms can I run GAP?
A: GAP is available for Microsoft Windows, macOS, and Unix-like operating systems, including Linux distributions.

### Q: How do I install GAP?
A: Installation instructions and downloads are available on the official website, [https://www.gap-system.org/](https://www.gap-system.org/), which provides binaries for various platforms.

### Q: Who developed GAP?
A: The development of GAP is attributed to the GAP Group, though specific key individuals are not detailed in the provided source material.

## Why It Matters
GAP plays a crucial role in computational algebra by providing tools for researchers and educators working in discrete algebra. Its open-source nature allows for community-driven development and customization, making it a valuable resource for mathematical computations. The system's focus on group theory and related structures has made it indispensable in academic and research settings, where precise and efficient algebraic computations are required. By offering a robust platform for discrete algebra, GAP supports advancements in various fields, including cryptography, combinatorics, and theoretical computer science.

## Notable For
- **Open-Source Development**: GAP is maintained as a free and open-source project, fostering community contributions and continuous improvement.
- **Specialized Algebraic Computations**: It excels in handling complex group-theoretic problems, making it a go-to tool for researchers in discrete algebra.
- **Cross-Platform Compatibility**: Available on multiple operating systems, ensuring accessibility for a wide range of users.
- **Active Community**: The project has a dedicated user base and contributors, ensuring regular updates and support.
- **Educational Use**: Widely adopted in academic settings for teaching and learning group theory and related concepts.

## Body
### Overview
GAP (Groups, Algorithms, and Programming) is a computer algebra system designed for computational discrete algebra. It was developed in 1986 and first released publicly in 1988. The system is known for its capabilities in group theory, permutation groups, and related mathematical structures.

### Development and Release
- **Inception**: The project began in 1986, with the first public release occurring in 1988.
- **Versions**: The latest stable version is 4.12.2, released on December 18, 2022. Previous versions include 4.12.1 (October 20, 2022), 4.12.0 (August 18, 2022), and earlier releases dating back to 1988.
- **License**: GAP is licensed under the GNU General Public License, version 2.0 or later, ensuring it remains free and open-source.

### Technical Specifications
- **Operating Systems**: Compatible with Microsoft Windows, macOS, and Unix-like systems, including Linux distributions.
- **File Extensions**: Supports .gd, .gi, and .g file formats for scripts and data.
- **Source Code**: The source code is hosted on GitHub, allowing for community contributions and transparency.

### Usage and Impact
- **Academic and Research Use**: GAP is widely used in academic research and education for its specialized capabilities in discrete algebra.
- **Community Support**: The project benefits from an active community of users and developers, ensuring regular updates and improvements.
- **Cross-Platform Availability**: Its availability on multiple platforms makes it accessible to a broad audience of mathematicians and researchers.

### Related Entities
- **Programming Language**: GAP is classified as a programming language for communicating instructions to a machine, in addition to being a computer algebra system.
- **Operating Systems**: It runs on Microsoft Windows, macOS, and Unix-like operating systems, reflecting its broad compatibility.

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  "@type": "SoftwareApplication",
  "name": "GAP",
  "description": "Computer algebra system for computational discrete algebra",
  "url": "https://www.gap-system.org/",
  "sameAs": ["https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q11368", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GAP_(computer_algebra_system)"],
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  "license": "GNU General Public License, version 2.0 or later",
  "softwareVersion": "4.12.2",
  "datePublished": "1988",
  "sourceCode": "https://github.com/gap-system/gap"
}

## References

1. [GAP System for Computational Discrete Algebra](http://www.gap-system.org/)
2. [GAP System for Computational Discrete Algebra](https://www.gap-system.org)
3. [Release 4.10.2. 2019](https://github.com/gap-system/gap/releases/tag/v4.10.2)
4. [Release 4.10.0. 2018](https://github.com/gap-system/gap/releases/tag/v4.10.0)
5. [Release 4.10.1. 2019](https://github.com/gap-system/gap/releases/tag/v4.10.1)
6. [Release 4.11.0. 2020](https://github.com/gap-system/gap/releases/tag/v4.11.0)
7. [Release 4.11.1. 2021](https://github.com/gap-system/gap/releases/tag/v4.11.1)
8. [Release 4.12.0. 2022](https://github.com/gap-system/gap/releases/tag/v4.12.0)
9. [Release 4.12.1. 2022](https://github.com/gap-system/gap/releases/tag/v4.12.1)
10. [Release 4.12.2. 2022](https://github.com/gap-system/gap/releases/tag/v4.12.2)
11. [Release 4.13.0. 2024](https://github.com/gap-system/gap/releases/tag/v4.13.0)
12. [Release 4.13.1. 2024](https://github.com/gap-system/gap/releases/tag/v4.13.1)
13. [Release 4.14.0. 2024](https://github.com/gap-system/gap/releases/tag/v4.14.0)
14. [Release 4.15.0. 2025](https://github.com/gap-system/gap/releases/tag/v4.15.0)
15. [Release 4.15.1. 2025](https://github.com/gap-system/gap/releases/tag/v4.15.1)
16. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013