Open Source

Open Source refers to a type of software licensing and development model in which the source code of a program is made publicly available for anyone to view, use, modify, and distribute. This approach promotes collaborative improvement and sharing among developers and users, encouraging innovation and transparency. The open-source philosophy supports the idea that software should be freely accessible to enhance technological advancement and foster community participation. Open-source software can range from operating systems and applications to libraries and frameworks, and it often has a community-driven development process. Examples of open-source projects include the Linux operating system, the Apache web server, and the Mozilla Firefox browser. Open source is contrasted with proprietary software, where the source code is kept secret and restrictions are placed on its use and distribution. Open source has implications not only in software but also in hardware and other creative projects that embrace collaborative development.