In the world of computers, open source is software code that is open to the public and that is able to be modified by anyone who has access to it. It is usually developed by many different programmers who work together on a single software project. Since open source software can be modified by the public, it is different than proprietary software that is copyrighted by an organization or company that restricts access and does not allow its programs to be manipulated or modified. As with all software, open source programs come in a large variety of purposes and uses. Some programs are used every day by millions of people all over the world. Programs such as Firefox and OpenOffice are two examples of these.
Many open source programs are free to use. This means that individuals and organizations in San Diego are able to simply download the program from the internet, install it and start using all of its features without having to pay. This can be appealing to small businesses since they can try the software without costs and thus without monetary risk. If they do not like the way the software works, they can simply remove it and try something else that will better meet their needs.
Some San Diego IT consultants recommend open source to their clients because they believe that open source software is more stable and reliable than proprietary software. Since the software code is open to the public, programmers and independent software designers can find and solve software issues and create patches and updates faster than their proprietary counterparts. For the most part, open source software reflects what users want because it is the users themselves who are able to edit the software and make it do what they need it to do.
This offers advantages over proprietary software since users get to decide how they use software rather than have a company or other organization dictate to them how the software should be used. This also gives users freedom because they can review the code and make sure that their actions are not being tracked by a third party without their consent, which is often done as a marketing scheme.
Open source software is also customizable. San Diego companies are able to take an open source program and make modifications to it by adding or removing features that are specific to their needs. This is something that is not possible with proprietary software since it is copyrighted. This gives companies the flexibility to do what they want with their software code. They do not have to settle with software that does not meet all of their needs.
With the many emerging needs of computer users, it is important for software to be flexible and reliable. Many proprietary developers do a good job at this, but even then they are often not able to meet the needs of all their user’s specific goals.
Open source software is able to provide flexibility and reliability that is required in today’s world of technology. It is this innovation that has made open source so popular both in the business world and in everyday life. For more information about open source software or for help in deciding if it is the right choice for your business, reach out to Syndeo Communications at 760-650-3300. Our expert computer consultants are more than happy to answer questions and can help you schedule a free consultation.