Pronunciation

Software whose original code is able to be viewed, modified, and distributed.

Open Source Software is often developed collaboratively and its source code can be studied and added to. Software that is Open Source can be designed quickly and the ability to modify it at any point gives it much more flexibility than commercial software. Because it is freely available, Open Source software is often used as a budget option when companies are making purchasing decisions. However, because the source is viewable, it can be studied for weaknesses by malicious parties. In addition, Open Source projects may not have features developed for niche markets whereas their closed source counterparts may have spent time specifically developing to the exact needs of their customers.

Technology