Open source: 5 things you need to know about it to better your use of it.

Gone are the days when mentioning the use of Open source software was considered taboo in companies or business settings. Over time, it use has become acceptable, in fact, open source software is the first consideration when the need arises.

While it is now acceptable, it may not be what it seems to be, that is why I decided to list out 5 things you should expect if you want to dive into the world of open source software.

Things you should know about Open source 

1. You’re probably already using it

Do you know the Firefox browser? Do you use it? If yes, you are already using open source software. In fact, a lot of people use them without knowing it. WordPress and many more are being used by a vast array of people, and that doesn’t even account for the snippets of open source code that find their way into proprietary software.

2.  It’s not always free

For any software to be considered open source, the source code needs to be available for free. It does not mean the application cannot be monetized. A lot of companies are actually making money from such projects. In most instances, prices are usually attached to things like support or premium features, the free version is usually a stripped-down, bare-bones version of the premium (but still open source) product.

3. It is not just for programmers

A lot of people think that open source software/codes can only be used by programmers. The fact that the source code is made available does not mean that only those who know how to read, edit, and rebuild that code can and should use it. Anyone can use open source software with or without the skills to modify and rebuild the software. I am sure that the majority of open source users do not have a single programming language in their skill set.

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4. You are not breaking any laws

Most people are of the opinion that  open source adoption might be illegal. Its usage does not break any laws. So continue using your firefox browser, WordPress etc. You are still a law-abiding citizen

5. Freeware and shareware are not the same as open-source

If the source code to the software is not made available, that piece of software is definitely not open source, which is the case in freeware and shareware softwares. A freeware is a software that is distributed for free use without a charge, while a shareware is a software that is distributed for free initially, but might require payment to unlock some additional features.

Armed with the right information about what to expect, your transition to an open source solution will be stressless and easy. Open source softwares is giving their proprietary counterparts a stiff competition due to their general acceptance.