What is Open-Source Software?
Open-source software is a type of program for you and your IT team to examine and adjust its coding to fit your business requirements. This type of solution differs from free software.
Open-Source vs. Free Software
It’s easy to confuse free with open-source software, but in actuality, they’re as similar as burgers and hot dogs. As the name implies, free software often comes with no price tag, but still allows users the full benefits of the software. Often free software is everything it appears to be on the surface: a free solution for your business to implement. Similarly, open-source software provides users with access to software, often without any associated costs. The primary difference between free and open-source software is that an open-source solution provides access to the source code, hence the name. This access allows users to make modifications to the system at all levels.
While free and open-source solutions are incredibly similar, the nuances that set them apart can make a big difference for business. When considering these types of solutions make sure you’re aware of how much access you’ll have to the source code and ask about hidden fees to ensure there’s no confusion about what type of software you’re implementing.
