LAME
LAME is a converter that converts audio to the MP3 file format. It encodes audio in the MP3 format, hence it is also considered a codec. LAME is required by some programs (e.g., Audacity) to create MP3 files. LAME is required as an add-on for many Open Source audio programs because the MP3 format is encumbered by software patents. Having these patented procedures (which require licensing in some countries) moved to a separate program allows Open Source programmers to avoid having to worry about those copyright issues.