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What is Open Source Software?
Software whose source code is freely distributed with a license to study, update and further distributed to anyone to fulfil a purpose is called open source software. Open source software is generally a team effort where dedicated programmers improve upon the source code and share the changes within the community. Some common examples of Open source software are Linux, Android, and ReactOS.
Significances of Open Source Software
Open-source software is defined as software that is freely available for modification, usage, and dissemination. The copyright holder offers permission or control over the source code to anyone who wishes to modify it for next level like to add on additional functionalities. There are different compelling reasons to share something under an open source license, ranging from “more perspectives make better software” to “establishing a standard.” It is critical when developing a sustainable project to consider your reasons for publishing as open source and utilize these as a guide for decision making.
Characteristics of Open Source Software
Some of the key Characteristics of Open Source Software are as follows −
- Flexibility − Experts can make necessary changes in the software as per their needs.
- Stability − Availability of technical experts in the open source community to look after the software. Hence, users can make the software stable and can be used for the long term.
- Security and Reliability − Since the program is being developed and improved by a team of individuals. Thus, software is more secure and reliable.
- Better Support − Since the program is used by a large number of people, including developers, businesses, and end users. As a result, to get technical support is easier.
Types of Open Source Software
Some common types of Open Source Software are as follows −
Freeware
A software that is available free of cost for use and distribution but cannot be modified as its source code is not available is called freeware. Examples of freeware are Google Chrome, Adobe Acrobat PDF Reader, Skype, etc.
Shareware
Software that is initially free and can be distributed to others as well, but needs to be paid for after a stipulated period of time is called shareware. Its source code is also not available and hence cannot be modified.
Proprietary Software
Software that can be used only by obtaining license from its developer after paying for it is called proprietary software. An individual or a company can own such proprietary software. Its source code is often closely guarded secret and it can have major restrictions like −
- No further distribution
- Number of users that can use it
- Type of computer it can be installed on, example multitasking or single user, etc.
For example, Microsoft Windows is proprietary operating software that comes in many editions for different types of clients like single-user, multi-user, professional, etc.
Advantages of Open Source Software
Some of the key advantages of Open Source Software are as follows −
- Transparency
- Security
- Customization
- Affordability
- Scalability
- Interoperable on multiple platforms
- Powering the digital transformation
- The open-source community
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