Open source means the software that is made public along with the source code. It is ensured that the derivative work will also be available as source code. There is a provision that certain rights of the original authors are protected. Similarly the restriction on the utility of the software is prohibited. There is neither restriction on the use of the software nor the user of the software. Open source is a software that is created by a group of people who have decided to work together as a team for the evolution and development of the software. The open source is the resultant of collaborative effort.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Open Source Software
Every coin has two sides and so does open source software. It has its own advantages as well as disadvantages.
Some of the advantages of open source software are as follows.
- The source code is made available. This makes the isolation of bugs and fixing them a much easier task.
- One can modify the source code.
- The software product can be modified are changed according to one’s whims and fancies.
- The modifications and amendments to the code can be redistributed.
- The rights of redistribution are universal and irrevocable.
- The open source software can be used anyway and this virtue can be worked out to improve its functionality.
- The powers of restricting the utility of the software do not exist. If the user does want to upgrade software product for an old platform, there are chances that the customers may either stick to the old platform or get another one.
- The maintenance and improvement of open source software cannot be stopped by anyone.
- The verification and inspection of the algorithms can easily be conducted in case of open source software.
Some of the disadvantages of open source software are as follows.
- The projects can be sabotaged and suffocated to breathe no more because the developers may not like it to exist.
- In the open source there can be an annoying bug that can be removed only after spending some money for its removal.
Open source is being used by Webmyne and Commodityrentals. The software got through these two websites is cost effective because the buyer does neither have to spend for license nor for hosting. This saves time too. The software is portable, flexible and can be customized.
