Open Source Software (OSS) vs Closed Source Software(CSS)

Question 1

What is source code?

Answer 1

written by a programmer

refers to object code before it has been compiled

Question 2

What does it mean when software is referred to as ‘open.closed source’?

Answer 2

refers to whether or not the source code is accessible to the public

Question 3

What is Open Source?

Answer 3

OSS can be used by anyone without licence

distributed with the source code

Question 4

What is Closed Source?

Answer 4

CSS rewuires user to hold an appropriate license to use it

users cannot access the source code as comapny owns copyright license

Question 5

Compare the two (OSS and CSS)

Answer 5

OSS - freely available for others to examine or recompile
CSS - propriety software is sold in the from of a license to use it which restricts users on how software can be used

CSS - allows others to make ammended versions of the program and contribute to the programs development
CSS - software company or developer holds copyright so users don’t have access to the source code and not allowed to modify the package and sell it to other

OSS - no commercial organisation behind osftware so no helpline or regular updates
CSS - support available from company such as regular updates, techncial support lines, trainng courses and a large user base

Question 6

Give examples of OSS and CSS.

Answer 6

OSS - Linux, Libre, Office, Firefox

CSS - Mac OS, iWork, Safari

Question 7

Give Advantages and Disadvantages of OSS

Answer 7

+ :
- can be modified and improved by anyone
- techncial support from online community
- can be modified and sold on

• :
• supoort available online may be insufficient or incorrect. no user manuals
• lower security as may not be developed in a controlled environment

Question 8

Give Advantages and Disadvantages of CSS

Answer 8

+ :
- thorough, regular and well-tested updates
- company owning software provides ecpert support and user manuals
- high levels of security as developed professionally

• :
• license restricts how many people can use the software at once
• users cannot improve software themselves

Question 9

What does a user have to take into account when choosing between OSS and CSS?

Answer 9

• choosing between them depends on sustainability of the software to the task they’re using it for
• costs - implementation, maintenance, training of staff, license
• functionality - features available, ease of use