OPEN SOURCE SOFTWARE & CLOSE SOURCE SOFTWARE

A.    Definition

Open Source Software (OSS) is the operating system that has a the code freely available on the Internet.  The code can be copied, modified or deleted by other users and organizations. As the software is open to the public, the result is that it constantly updates, improves and expands as more people can work on its improvement.

Closed source software (CSS) is opposite to OSS and means the software which uses the proprietary and closely guarded code. Only the original authors of software can access, copy, and alter that software. Users  are not purchasing the software, but only pay to use it.

B.     Comparing between OSS and CSS

1.      Price Policy

Open source often referred as a free of cost software. It can, however, have costs for extras like assistance, additional services or added functionality. Thus, you may still pay for a service with OSS.

Closed source software is usually a paid software. The costs can vary depending on the complexity of the software.

2.      Security

The code of open source software can be viewed, shared and modified by community, which means anyone can fix, upgrade and test the broken code. Then, OOS faster to service the operating system.

On the contrary, closed source software can be fixed only by a vendor. If something goes wrong with the software, you send a request and wait for the answer from the support team..

3.      Source Code Availability

Open source software provides an ability to change the source code without any restrictions. Individual users can develop what they want and get benefits from innovation developed by others within the user community.

Сlosed source software is more restricted than open source software because the source code cannot be changed or viewed.

C.     Advantages and disadvantages from open source :

Advantages :

1.      Open source is generally free and you do not have to pay for using it. Its useable to personality or big corporations. Because can be saving the cost to another things.

2.      Most open source applications have their own communities which are constantly evolving the software thus improving its quality and security.

Disadvantages :

1.      Open Source software is that most interfaces are not so user-friendly and easy to use.

2.      Open Source is the support service. In most cases you should rely on the corresponding community or pay for external supporting service, which is quite ok if you are using a popular software with lots of followers, but can be a heavy burden for less caught on applications.

D.    Advantages and Disadvantages Close Source :

Advantages :

1.      More stabil

2.      Support from the direct owner

3.      Easier to use with the commands in operating system.

Disadvantages :

1.      Design dekstop less attractive

2.      Need the cost