What is R?
R is a free software language and environment for statistical computing and graphics. It provides programmable data analysis and can be extended with packages; editors, hosting and managed services are separate choices.
Who is R for?
Analysts and research teams who can maintain code, package dependencies and reproducible data-analysis workflows.
Separate the runtime, editor and operating environment
R is a statistical computing language and environment. An editor such as RStudio provides a different part of the workflow; selecting an editor does not replace planning the R runtime and packages.
The R FAQ explains the project, CRAN and commercial-use scope. Check package requirements individually rather than applying the runtime’s conditions to every external dependency.
R features
The core capabilities to consider for your workflow.
- Statistical computing and programmable data analysis
- Graphics and publication-oriented visualisation
- Extensible packages and script-based workflows
R pricing
Free open-source software
There is no R runtime subscription purchase in the project’s free-software distribution. Budget separately for computing, data storage, administration, support and any selected commercial services.
Calculate the cost of your quote →Free access & evaluation
The R Project distributes R as free software under the GNU GPL. Separate packages, IDEs and hosted services can have their own conditions and costs.
Before you choose R
Packages and runtime versions need recording for reproducibility.
Review add-on package licences separately from the R runtime.
Free software does not include a managed hosting, administration or support service by default.
Make the analysis reproducible
Use a small synthetic table, a script and one chart. Save the input, R version, package versions and commands. Rerun from a clean session and have an authorised colleague reproduce the output in their intended environment.
Plan who maintains dependencies and where the computation runs. A free language does not settle the cost or operation of a shared server, a hosted workspace or an organisation’s support arrangement.
Explore related statistical & scientific tools
R FAQs
Is R statistical software free?
The R Project distributes R as free software under the GNU GPL. Hosting, support and other services can be separate purchases.
Is R the same as RStudio?
No. R is the language and runtime environment; RStudio is an IDE. Posit’s desktop troubleshooting guidance checks separately that R is installed.
Can R be used for commercial purposes?
The R Core Team’s FAQ says R can be used for commercial purposes. Check add-on package terms and any redistribution requirements separately.
What is CRAN used for in R?
CRAN is the Comprehensive R Archive Network, providing R distributions, contributed packages and documentation.
Does R include a managed cloud workspace?
The project’s free-software distribution is separate from a hosted or managed service. Choose and budget the computing environment and administration separately.