Open Source Software and Proprietary Software

 

Open Source Software and Proprietary Software

1. What is Open Source Software?

Open Source Software (OSS) is software whose source code is freely available to everyone.
Anyone can view, modify, distribute, or improve the code.

Features of Open Source Software

  • Free to use (mostly)

  • Source code available

  • Community-based development

  • Users can modify and customize

  • Transparent and secure (bugs fixed quickly)

Examples of Open Source Software

  • Linux (Operating system)

  • Android

  • Mozilla Firefox

  • VLC Media Player

  • LibreOffice

  • GIMP

2. What is Proprietary Software?

Proprietary Software (also called Closed Source Software) is software whose source code is NOT available.
Only the company that created it can modify or distribute it.

Features of Proprietary Software

  • Usually paid or subscription-based

  • Source code hidden

  • Controlled by a single company

  • Users cannot modify the software

  • Official customer support available

Examples of Proprietary Software

  • Microsoft Windows

  • Microsoft Office

  • macOS

  • Adobe Photoshop

  • Apple iOS

  • CorelDRAW

3. Difference Between Open Source and Proprietary Software

BasisOpen Source SoftwareProprietary Software
Source CodeAvailable to everyoneNot available
CostMostly freePaid or subscription
CustomizationFully customizableNot customizable
SupportCommunity supportOfficial company support
SecurityTransparent, bugs fixed quicklyBugs depend on company updates
OwnershipShared/community ownershipCompany-owned
ExamplesLinux, Firefox, VLCWindows, Photoshop, iOS

4. Advantages & Disadvantages

Advantages of Open Source

  • Free to use

  • High security and transparency

  • Can be modified

  • Large community support

Disadvantages of Open Source

  • No official support

  • May require technical knowledge

  • Compatibility issues sometimes

Advantages of Proprietary Software

  • Reliable and stable

  • Official technical support

  • Easy to use

  • Regular updates

Disadvantages of Proprietary Software

  • Costly

  • Cannot modify

  • Limited freedom

  • Vendor lock-in (dependent on one company)

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