1.6.1

Open Source vs Proprietary Software

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Open Source Software

Open source software is a model of software development which allows permitted use of its source code.

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Open source software

  • Open source projects are projects where the source code used to create the project is made publicly available.
  • Anyone can legally view, modify and distribute the source code.
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Pros of open source

There are many advantages to open source, such as:

  • Open source software is usually free.
  • Open source software is maintained by a large community of contributors.
  • Open source software encourages collaboration.
  • Open source software encourages rapid development.
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Cons of open source

  • There are also some issues with open source development:
    • Open source software usually provides no warranty or guarantee.
    • Smaller projects may not receive regular updates.
    • Official customer support may not be available.

Proprietary Software

Proprietary software is also known as closed source software.

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Proprietary software

  • The source code for proprietary software is not available to people outside of the organisation.
  • When buying proprietary software you do not own the software, but have only bought a license to use it.
  • Modifying, copying, or redistributing the software is illegal.
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Pros of proprietary software

  • Proprietary software comes with a warranty or guarantee.
  • Proprietary software often has customer support.
  • Proprietary software should be thoroughly tested and reliable.
  • Proprietary software is usually easier to install and use for the average user.
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Cons of proprietary software

  • Proprietary software's source code is not available, so cannot be fixed or modified by users.
  • Proprietary software might not do exactly what you want it to do.
  • Proprietary software can be expensive.
  • Proprietary software's older versions may not be maintained.

Jump to other topics

1Computer Systems

1.1Systems Architecture

1.2Memory & Storage

1.3Computer Networks, Connections & Protocols

1.4Network Security

1.5Systems Software

1.6Ethical, Legal, Cultural & Environmental Concern

2Computational Thinking, Algorithms and Programming

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