Open-source software (OSS) has become increasingly popular in recent years, and for a good reason. SMEs and Startups in particular, can benefit greatly from using OSS, and in this post, we’ll explore some of the advantages that OSS can offer.
First and foremost, cost is one of the biggest benefits of using OSS. Many OSS licenses, such as the GNU General Public License (GPL), allow for free use, modification, and distribution of the software. This can be a huge cost saving for enterprises that are operating on a tight budget. Even if you have to pay for a commercial license, it will likely be much less expensive than proprietary software.
Another advantage of OSS is that it is typically more customisable than proprietary software. Since the source code is available, developers can make changes to the software to better fit the company’s needs. This can be especially useful for unique requirements that are not met by off-the-shelf software.
In addition, OSS often has a large and active community of developers who contribute to the software. This can be a huge advantage, as they can tap into the expertise and knowledge of the community to help improve and maintain the software. They can also receive support and guidance from the community, which can be invaluable for enterprises that are just getting started.
Furthermore, OSS is often more secure than proprietary software. “Open source is not a guarantee for security or privacy. It is a prerequisite” once said one of my IT peers. Since the source code is open and available for review, bugs and vulnerabilities can be identified and fixed more quickly than with proprietary software. Additionally, OSS is not reliant on a single vendor for security updates and patches, which can be a major advantage.
In conclusion, Open-Source software can offer many benefits, including cost savings, customisability, community support, and improved security. As more and more startups turn to OSS, it is becoming an increasingly viable option if you want to design and build quality IT systems at an acceptable cost.
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