Open Source on a Large Scale Initially, open source was used deep within IT depa
ID: 346526 • Letter: O
Question
Open Source on a Large Scale
Initially, open source was used deep within IT departments. These groups have the technical prowess to manage and evaluate such technologies, understanding where they should be widely deployed, and where they should have limited use. The use of open source is not limited to a few companies that want to be on the edge. Companies that are using open source, such as Linux, for commercial applications include Winnebago Industries, Merrill Lynch and Co, and L. L. Bean. Write up a description of the benefits and problems with using Open Source applications and software. Some examples questions that you should consider when writing your paper:
Fundamental issues with open source software development
Legal risks
Licensing issues
Areas (departments, companies, industriies, etc.) where open source makes the most sense
An assessment of the competition (e.g., open source vs Microsoft)
Explanation / Answer
ADVANTAGES OF USING AN OPEN SOURCE SOFTWARE
The advantages of open source are enormous and its popularity has increased in the IT field nowadays. This is because of the fact that the open-source software and application is free to use – its most important advantage. As it is created by a non-profit group, it has a few disadvantages also.
Open-source programming is allowed to access and use, distribute and modify. It has brought down costs, and it costs very less as compared to its proprietary counterparts.
Open-source programming is more secure as the code is available to everybody. Anybody can settle bugs as they are found, and users don't need to wait long for the next update. As we know that the application is constantly checked by a large group produces secure and stable code.
Open source isn't subject to the organization or creator that initially made it. Regardless of whether the organization falls flat, the code keeps on existing and be produced by its users. Likewise, it utilizes open standards available to everybody; in this way, it doesn't have the issue of incompatible configurations that exist in proprietary software.
In conclusion, the organizations utilizing open-source programming don't need to consider complex licensing models and need not think about the anti-piracy measures like the product activation key or serial number.
DISADVANTAGES OF USING AN OPEN SOURCE SOFTWARE
We consider Proprietary software as a risk, but the risk associated with open source is higher that it violates third-party intellectual property rights, and open source clients get no contract security for this higher hazard. As per the theory, any programmer can add infringing code to open source since it is created without the standard business controls. Additionally, most suppliers of open source don't offer the warranty protections usually given for business items. (Hewlett-Packard has declared it will offer legitimate assurances for its version of Linux on certain somewhat strict conditions, and others may likewise do this. However, most of the providers have not followed suit, nor are they anticipated that would.) therefore, a higher risk of infringement, and the subsequent exposure to injunctions and damages lay altogether on the client.
Open source accompanies license restrictions that may affect an organization's strategies, especially the risk that its own proprietary programming might be "spoiled" by an obligation to open its source code to others. This risk is unique as compared to the risk associated with infringement. Open source isn't in public domain yet rather is accessible for use just under one of the varieties of licenses that force limitations on clients. These licenses contrast, and it is imperative to know and watch their terms.
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