Open Source vs Closed Source

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Open Source Software

Open source software is designed with transparency and collaboration in mind. Its source code is freely available for anyone to view, modify, and redistribute. Examples include Linux, Mozilla Firefox, and Apache. The key advantages of open source are:

Transparency: Users can see how the software works and verify its security.
Community Collaboration: Developers from around the world contribute to improvements.
Freedom of Use: Many open-source licenses allow users to modify and share software freely.
Cost-Effectiveness: Most open-source software is free to use.

Closed Source Software

Closed source software, on the other hand, keeps its source code private and proprietary. Only authorized developers can access and modify the code. Examples include Microsoft Windows, Adobe Photoshop, and macOS. The key features of closed source are:

Controlled Access: Source code is not shared with the public.
Commercial Focus: Often developed by companies to generate revenue.
Consistency: Maintained by dedicated teams to ensure reliability and updates.
Security Through Secrecy: Proprietary systems may reduce the risk of unauthorized changes.

Key Differences

Aspect	Open Source	Closed Source
Access to Code	Freely available	Restricted
Cost	Typically free	Often paid
Collaboration	Community-driven	Developer-controlled
Flexibility	Highly customizable	Limited customization
Security	Open to public scrutiny	Security by obscurity