Computer software that is distributed under a licensing arrangement and which allows the computer code to be shared, viewed and modified by other users and organisations. Open source often refers to collaborative projects in the public domain, or programs which the author(s) permit limited modification and redistribution of the code based on specific licensing agreements. The outputs of open-source projects may or may not be products that are free. See also Linux.
Software that is developed, tested, and improved through public collaboration. It is distributed with the intent that the source code will be shared among others, ensuring an open future collaboration.
Open-Source Software, OSS is a type of software source code which is freely distributed to help develop the software and/or allow for customization with the software. PHP and Perl is a good example of an OSS software program.
software in which the source code is by definition freely available to the general public for redistribution, modification, examination or any other conceivable purpose. Encompasses a wider range of potential licensing schemes than does the term "free software." Cooked up as business-friendly marketing term by people who wanted to distance themselves from Richard Stallman.
Software whose code is available to the public. 8.24
Open-source software is an antonym for closed source and refers to any computer software whose source code is available under a license that permits users to study, change, and improve the software, and to redistribute it in modified or unmodified form. It is often developed in a public, collaborative manner. It is the most prominent example of open source development and often compared to user generated content Time Magazine Dec 25 2006.
