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Should You Use Open-Source Software for Your Business?
When you are setting up your own business, you need to consider a lot of things if you want your business to be a success. This is especially true if your business is in the technology industry, as you will need to choose what specific pieces of software you use to carry out your daily business operations.
When you are considering what software to use for your business, it is certainly worth considering open-source software.
What is Open-Source Software?
Open-source software is software that has been developed for free access and uses online. It does not exist to make a profit, but to be used by anybody that wants to use it, for whatever purpose they want to use it for.
What are the Advantages of Using Open-Source Software?
There are several advantages of using open-source software. Here are a few of them:
The Software is Free
The most obvious initial advantage of choosing open-source software over-paid and copyrighted software is that it is free! In addition, because there are no upfront costs or subscription costs, you can spend your money on other aspects of your business.
You Are Not Restricted by DRM
DRM, or Digital Rights Management, refers to conditions that are imposed on the usage of the software. DRM prevents users from modifying software or using it for certain purposes prohibited by the manufacturer. DRM often narrows the range of permitted functions for a piece of software.
Much Open-Source Software is Just as Good as Paid Software
Because open-source software is free, there is often a misconception that it is simply lower-quality versions of “professionally-made” software. However, this is not the case. For example, the Linux operating system, which many tech companies favor, is a piece of open-source software!
Many companies are turning to the IoT (or Internet of Things) and incorporating open-source software, applications, and even operating systems across an increasing number of devices. If you are thinking of setting up a reliable and secure open-source operating system across multiple devices, click here for more information.
What are the Disadvantages of Using Open-Source Software?
Despite the advantages of using open-source software, there are also some disadvantages. Here are a few of them:
There is No Default Customer Support
Because open-source software is not developed for profit, there usually are not teams of engineers dedicated to customer support, as there are no funds for this! However, that does not mean that there is no assistance available for open-source solutions. Many companies offer support services for exactly this purpose.
Some Software Can Have Bugs or Malware
While most open-source software is created to help people rather than to exploit them, there are still malicious actors with negative intentions. Even if the software itself that you are downloading is legitimate, there are still websites where people will offer downloads that they have added pieces of malware to. Always do your research!
Updates and Patches Aren’t Offered Automatically
One of the main advantages of purchasing paid software is that the license agreement usually entitles the user to patches and updates that can be downloaded and installed automatically and free of charge. However, some companies offer the same services for open-source software.
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