Open source software sounds really interesting to me since I had no idea something like that existed. An example given in the lectures of an open source software is Linux, which I have heard of before but had never used or really understood.
But the basics of open source software is that the source code for the operating system is out in the public domain. This is different from closed operating systems in that only the developers of that system ever get to mess with the code. In open source software, anyone can scrutinize, correct and enhance the software as they see fit.
This kind of software is good for consumers because it can save money since the software is changed and exchanged among multiple users. But there also can be security issues since everyone can view and change the software.
What I don't understand is why developers would make this kind of software since they won't make a profit off of it? And also, how secure can the software be if everyone can mess with it? Won't there be some people out there who will use the open source system for devious means?
Some places that are worth checking out to learn more about open source software (which I will be studying to find the answers to my questions) are:
The Open Source Initiative, which has a very long and interesting definition for open source software
Free Open Source Software, which is kind of like a wiki community on all things open source and even has a list of open source applications.
Below is a video on free open source software that includes Firefox (free browser), Audacity (free audio editing), Open Office (free office suite), Gimp Shop (free photo manipulation) and more!
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