Open source software is computer software that is released under a license in which the copyright holder grants users the rights to use, study, change, and distribute the software and its source code to anyone and for any purpose. Open source software is developed in a collaborative, public manner, making the number of possible contributors indefinite. Open source projects, products, or initiatives embrace and celebrate principles of open exchange, collaborative participation, rapid prototyping, transparency, meritocracy, and community-oriented development.
Open source software is different from proprietary software in that its authors make its source code available to others who would like to view that code, copy it, learn from it, alter it, or share it. Users must accept the distribution license, which includes terms that define how developers can use, study, modify, and distribute the software. Open source code is usually stored in a public repository and shared publicly, and anyone can access the repository to use the code independently or contribute improvements to the design and functionality of the overall project.
The distribution terms of open-source software must comply with certain criteria, including free redistribution, inclusion of source code, allowing distribution in source code as well as compiled form, and no restrictions on other software that is distributed along with the licensed software. Open source software is often cheaper, more flexible, and has more longevity than its proprietary peers because it is developed by communities rather than a single author or company.
