Open Source
- Software with publicly available source code that anyone can access, modify, and distribute.
- Typically free to use and often developed collaboratively by a community of volunteers.
- Frequently considered more secure and stable than proprietary alternatives because many developers can find and fix bugs.
Definition
Section titled “Definition”Open source refers to a type of software whose source code is available to the public for use and modification. This means that anyone can access, modify, and distribute the software for free.
Explanation
Section titled “Explanation”Open source software is often developed collaboratively by a community of volunteers who work together to improve and enhance the software. Because development is open to many contributors, open source software is often more secure and stable than proprietary software, since a large community of developers can continuously work to fix bugs and vulnerabilities. Open source projects are widely used across devices and organizations and are a significant part of modern computing.
Examples
Section titled “Examples”Linux is an open source operating system used on a wide range of devices, including laptops, servers, and smartphones. It is known for being highly customizable and efficient, and it is used by many businesses and organizations due to its reliability and security. One of the main benefits of using Linux is that it is free to use and modify.
Firefox
Section titled “Firefox”Firefox is an open source web browser developed by the Mozilla Foundation. It is known for its speed, security, and privacy features, and it is used by millions of people around the world. Firefox is constantly being updated and improved by a community of volunteers and is free to use and modify.
Other examples
Section titled “Other examples”- OpenOffice suite
- GIMP image editor
- Apache web server
Use cases
Section titled “Use cases”- Individuals and businesses looking to save money on software by using free, modifiable applications.
- Operating systems for devices such as laptops, servers, and smartphones.
- Web browsing for users who value speed, security, and privacy.
- Software used and managed by businesses and organizations that rely on reliability and security.
Related terms
Section titled “Related terms”- Proprietary software
- Community of volunteers (collaborative development)