The GNU General Public License (GPL) is a widely used free software license that allows users to run, study, share, and modify software. Created by the Free Software Foundation, the GPL ensures that software remains free for all users, promoting collaboration and transparency in software development. Any derivative work must also be distributed under the same license, which helps maintain the freedom of the software. The GPL is designed to protect the rights of both developers and users. It encourages the sharing of knowledge and improvements while preventing proprietary restrictions on software. This license has been instrumental in the growth of the open-source software movement, fostering a community of innovation and shared resources.