Open Source Software

Open source software (OSS) is software that has been released under an Open Source Initiative (OSI) certified license. Each of the licenses approved by the OSI meets the conditions of the Open Source Definition. Open source refers to a program or software in which the source code is available to the general public for use or modification from its original design free of charge. "Source code" is the part of software that most computer users can’t see. It can be freely used, changed, and shared by anyone. Open source software is something that can be modified because its design is publicly accessible.

 OSI- The Open Source Initiative is an organization dedicated to promoting open-source software .Open Source is a certification standard issued by the Open Source Initiative (OSI) that indicates that the source code of a computer program is made available free of charge to the general public.

Features of Open Source Software:

Source code: The availability of the source code and the right to modify it is very important. It enables the unlimited tuning and improvement of a software product. Source code availability also makes it much easier to find bugs and to fix them.

Flexibility: Open-source software allows you to retain not just the right to use the software you already have, but the ability to continue to use it as your needs change. It can be made according to your business needs. It is usually within the resources of all but the smallest companies to modify Open Source software to suit their own needs.

Cost and Security: Open-source software is free to use, distribute, and modify. Using open source software can help you minimize your expenses. You can save on licensing fees and maintenance fees. The only expenses that you would encounter would be expenditure for documentation, media and support. And OSS is secured as the code is accessible to everyone. Anyone can fix bugs as they are found, and users do not have to wait for the next release.

Free Redistribution: The license of open source software specify that any user or any group can modify the source code of any software and redistribute it.

Effective Management: By using open source software, you can benefit from integrated management. Common Information Model (CIM) and Web Based Enterprise Management (WBEM) technologies are used in OSS. These high-end technologies enable you to integrate and combine server, application and workstation management. This integration would result in effective administration.

The companies using open-source software do not have to think about complex licensing models and do not need product activation or serial number. OSS higher level of security makes it best option for you.