Legal Definitions - open-source software

Open-source software refers to computer programs where the underlying code, known as the source code, is made publicly available. This means that anyone can view, inspect, modify, and distribute the software and its source code for any purpose. While open-source software is often available free of charge, its defining characteristic is the freedom it grants users to access and manipulate the code, encouraging collaborative development and innovation. It's important to note that even if the software itself is free and open, its brand name or logo may still be protected by intellectual property laws like trademark.

Here are some examples to illustrate open-source software:

• Example 1: Operating Systems

  Consider the Linux operating system. Unlike proprietary systems like Windows or macOS, the core code for Linux is open-source. This allows a global community of developers to contribute to its development, identify and fix bugs, and create specialized versions (known as "distributions") tailored for different uses, such as servers, desktop computers, or embedded devices. Users can download and install Linux distributions without purchasing a license, and they have the freedom to modify the system to suit their specific needs or even distribute their own customized versions.

• Example 2: Web Browsers

  Mozilla Firefox is a widely used web browser that operates on an open-source model. Its source code is publicly accessible, enabling security researchers to scrutinize it for vulnerabilities and developers worldwide to contribute to its features and performance. This transparency and collaborative effort help ensure the browser remains secure, innovative, and adaptable to new web standards, all while being available to users at no cost.

• Example 3: Content Management Systems

  WordPress, a popular platform used to build websites and blogs, is another excellent example of open-source software. Individuals and businesses can download and use WordPress for free to create their online presence. Its open-source nature means that developers can create and share custom themes and plugins, extending WordPress's functionality in countless ways. Website owners have the freedom to modify their WordPress installation, hire developers to customize it further, and host it on any server they choose, without being tied to a proprietary vendor for the core software.