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* Tell us about your experience with open source software (use comment box below)
What is Open Source Software (OSS)?
Open source is a development method for software that harnesses the power of distributed peer review and transparency of process. The promise of open source is better quality, higher reliability, more flexibility, lower cost, and an end to predatory vendor lock-in.
What is the difference between Open Source Software and Freeware?
Freeware is software that is given away for free, but they do not release the source code. This allows them to bundle in adware and even spyware and no one can do anything about it. Many of your favorite programs could contain spyware and you have no way of knowing who is receiving what information about your usage of that program. Many companies include ads in there software to help offset the cost of development (eg. MSN messenger, KaZaA, Bonzi Buddy)
Is All Freeware Bad?
Not at all! There are plenty of freeware programs that contain no ads/spyware, but you do need to be very careful when you are looking for freeware because the majority of it contains adware/spyware bundled with it. Some safe freeware programs include AVG antivirus(home edition), Avast! (antivirus) , Spybot Search & Destroy(anti-spyware), Opera (web browser) , Google Picasa (photo organizer), Winamp (an amazing media player), CCleaner (speeds up your computer), and many more. You should only download freeware from websites that you know you can trust, or that you were referred to by someone who knows what they are talking about. If you are going to download a freeware program you found through Google make sure you do your research about it before downloading.
Is Open Source Software Less Secure?
No! As a matter of fact OSS tends to be more secure, more reliable, and more stable. That is why most of your favorite websites (including facebook) are run using open source software. As much as 60% of the internet is run on OSS, and literally millions more start using OSS every month. The reason OSS is so much better is because every line of code can be reviewed hundreds or even thousands of times by different people, all with there own specialties and levels of knowledge. Proprietary software uses security through obscurity - meaning if you don't have the code it's alot harder to hack/crack. Since the code for Open Source Software is fully available the developers are forced to find new, better ways to provide true security.
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