Open Versus Closed System
Open Source versus Closed Source Operating Systems
In the technological industry the terms open source and closed source of often passed around when the discussion turns to which operating system to use. This paper will discuss the difference between open and closed source operating systems in an effort to provide the information necessary to make an informed decision regarding which one to choose. The definition of closed source, as related to operating systems or software, is one where the product is released in a compiled-executable state. What this means is that the software code has already been compiled to the point where the original source code is no longer accessible. Once the source code is no longer accessible it can no longer be modified or changed beyond what the original publisher or manufacturer designed. Another caveat when it comes to closed-source operating systems is that they, more often than not, include a licensing agreement. The manufacturer or publisher of the operating system or application retains all source code and maintains the copyrights and patents for the product unless otherwise specified in the licensing agreement. The OS or application is usually legally protected under law as the intellectual property of the publisher, and as such, remains the property of the publisher. Usage is determined by licensing, granting use to individuals or corporations depending on the nature of the licensing agreement purchased. Closed Source operating systems, Microsoft Window 7® for instance, were originally designed to fill a need in marketplace. By filling this need, they also are expected to provide the support, documentation and fulfill the expectation that the product they are providing will operate as advertised (Grant, 2004). In today’s world, closed source operating systems and applications is not the only option available, open source operating systems are available for use as well.
An open source operating
In the technological industry the terms open source and closed source of often passed around when the discussion turns to which operating system to use. This paper will discuss the difference between open and closed source operating systems in an effort to provide the information necessary to make an informed decision regarding which one to choose. The definition of closed source, as related to operating systems or software, is one where the product is released in a compiled-executable state. What this means is that the software code has already been compiled to the point where the original source code is no longer accessible. Once the source code is no longer accessible it can no longer be modified or changed beyond what the original publisher or manufacturer designed. Another caveat when it comes to closed-source operating systems is that they, more often than not, include a licensing agreement. The manufacturer or publisher of the operating system or application retains all source code and maintains the copyrights and patents for the product unless otherwise specified in the licensing agreement. The OS or application is usually legally protected under law as the intellectual property of the publisher, and as such, remains the property of the publisher. Usage is determined by licensing, granting use to individuals or corporations depending on the nature of the licensing agreement purchased. Closed Source operating systems, Microsoft Window 7® for instance, were originally designed to fill a need in marketplace. By filling this need, they also are expected to provide the support, documentation and fulfill the expectation that the product they are providing will operate as advertised (Grant, 2004). In today’s world, closed source operating systems and applications is not the only option available, open source operating systems are available for use as well.
An open source operating
References: Grant, A. (2004). Open vs. Closed Source Software. Retrieved from http://scienceinafrica.com/old/index.php?q=2004/january/software.htm