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open-source software

Also known as open source software, OSS

software that anyone is free to use and redistribute in its current state with a permissive licence giving a libre access to its original source code (but not necessarily to modify it)

AI overview

Open-source software is computer code that anyone can freely use and share, along with access to the original instructions that make it work. This matters because it promotes transparency and allows people to see exactly how the software operates, rather than keeping that information hidden behind closed doors.

AI-generated from the Wikipedia summary — may contain errors.

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hashtag: opensource
ACM Classification Code (2012): 10003597
P7771: February 22
Stack Exchange site URL: opensource.stackexchange.com
P13411: punk rock

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A screenshot of Debian Linux running the Cinnamon desktop environment, featuring Firefox (accessing Wikipedia which uses MediaWiki), LibreOffice Writer, Vim, VLC and Nemo file manager, all of which are open-source software Open-source software (OSS) is computer software that is released under a license in which the copyright holder grants users the rights to use, study, change, and distribute the software and its source code to anyone and for any purpose. Open-source software may be developed in a collaborative, public manner. Open-source software is a prominent example of open collaboration, meaning any capable user is able to participate online in development, making the number of possible contributors indefinite. The ability to examine the code facilitates public trust in the software.

Open-source software development can bring in diverse perspectives beyond those of a single company. A 2024 estimate of the value of open-source software to firms is $8.8 trillion, as firms would need to spend 3.5 times the amount they currently do without the use of open source software.