Insights on Open-source Software: Discussing the Advantages and Disadvantages

There may not be free lunches in this world, but businesses have definitely found a type of software that’s cost-effective. In the early days of software development, software was mostly commercial. This is owing to the limitations in the accessibility of the hardware to compile and develop code. As a result, businesses would only build the software depending on the requirements.

Today, the rapid progress of computing technology has encouraged many programmers worldwide to contribute to the massive global library of open-source software. According to Github, an estimated 90% of companies use open-source software as of 2022.

While there are clear benefits to adopting open-source software, it isn’t exactly perfect. Let’s delve further into the advantages and disadvantages.

What Is An Open-source Software?

Open-source refers to a type of software with a source code that any individual can assess, enhance, and modify. This source code is an integral part of the software that most computer users can’t see. However, programmers can easily modify this code to check how the software works. Additionally, programmers can easily add a new feature or fix an error in the software if the source code is accessible to them.

Open-source software (OSS) has been in use in the field of software development for a long time now. In fact, it has made way for many innovative solutions such as the Linux operating system. Unlike custom software solutions, open-source software development is economical and less time-consuming.

On that note, let’s delve further into the advantages and disadvantages of using open-source software solutions for businesses.

The Benefits and Drawbacks of Adopting Open Source Software for Your Business:

Working with an open source software has its fair share of advantages and disadvantages that we have discussed at length.

Advantages of Open Source Software Solutions

1. Provides More Security

Many businesses prefer open-source software because they consider it more secure and stable than proprietary software. Since anyone can modify the source code when working on open-source software, it’s easier to detect errors that the original author of a program may have bypassed.

It’s possible to fix and upgrade open-source software a lot quicker than bespoke software or proprietary software because multiple programmers can work on it at once.

2. Independent From Ownership

Open-source software is capable of running without the involvement of its owner. For instance, if the owner of an open-source software stops working on a specific project, other programmers can still work on it.

This level of involvement leads to the creation of unique solutions that align perfectly with a business’ requirements, workflow and objectives.

3. Cost-effective Solution

The cost of operating an open-source software is nominal. Although open-source software is free to access, sometimes accessing them may require money.

Since there’s not much financial viability in charging money for a product that someone might give away for free. This ensures that the total cost of ownership of this software remains economical.

4. Effective Learning Opportunities

The open-source community consists of an ecosystem of skilled programmers. As open-source code is available in the public domain, students in the field of engineering can learn about it.

This way, open-source software provides an outlet to nurture creativity in the learners' minds. This helps build a prosperous future for budding software engineers.

Drawbacks of Open Source Solutions

1. Threats of Cyberattacks

The development of open-source software doesn't take place in a controlled environment. As the source code remains open to anyone, the threat of cyber attacks always remains. All it takes is the wrong intention of a programmer to destroy the software system and misuse data.

But in the case of bespoke software solutions, the security check is carried out carefully. This minimises the possibility of sensitive data getting tampered with. That is the reason established businesses always prefer using custom software.

2. Lack of Dedicated Support

Every developer working on open-source projects may not be an expert. Having unfettered access means anyone can modify an open-source code, which results in poor delivery of service and support.

On the contrary, commercial software solutions provide the proper service and support because the team which works on the software consists of a group of experts.

Since open-source software requires the voluntary participation of developers, any developer working on a specific project can quit at any time. The developers are not liable to answer anyone.

3. Complicated to Install and Configure

When commercial software developers build a product, they do so with the end user in mind. This starts with the installation process. That’s the reason many commercial software packages include installers that automate their setup and basic configurations.

In contrast, open-source software requires plenty of manual setup and configurations which isn't always favourable in case of new developers.

The Takeaway,

If the advantages mentioned here are anything to go by, it’s evident why open source is a preferred choice for many businesses worldwide. Thus, it won't be wrong to say that open-source solutions have great potential to offer when it comes to fulfilling specific requirements. Ultimately, it depends on the kind of requirements businesses may have, whether open-source software is suitable or not.