Open source vs closed source

1.2.2 Applications Generation

Applications Generation — Note 3 of 6

Candidates need to be able to explain the differences between open and closed source software, the benefits and drawbacks to creator and user of each of the licensing models, and be able to recommend which is used (with justification) for a specific scenario.

What you need to know

Software is released under a licence that controls how it can be used. Open source software makes its source code available to view and change; closed source software keeps its source code private. Each model has benefits and drawbacks for both the creator and the user.

What to know

Open source for users: usually free; can be adapted to their needs; bugs can be fixed by the community; no dependence on one company.
Open source drawbacks for users: support may rely on the community; documentation may be limited; may be less user-friendly.
Open source for creators: contributions and testing from a large community; but little or no direct income from sales.
Closed source for users: usually professionally supported, documented and tested; but costs money, cannot be modified, and users depend on the company for updates.
Closed source for creators: income from licences; code and intellectual property are protected.

Key terms

Exam tipCommon mistake

Open source software: Software whose source code is made freely available so users can view, modify and redistribute it, according to its licence.
Common mistake: Saying open source software is not protected by copyright. It is copyrighted; its licence simply grants extra freedoms.
Closed source (proprietary) software: Software whose source code is kept secret by the owner; users buy a licence to use the compiled program but cannot see or modify the code.

Exam technique

Tip:Questions often ask about benefits to a specific party (creator or user). Make sure each point is about the party in the question.