Question:

1. What is meant by open source software?
2. Discuss the open source development model.
3. Enlist the features, advantages, and disadvantages of the open-source model.
4. Write a note on licensing of open source software.

1. Open Source Software (OSS)

• Definition: Software released under a license allowing users to use, modify, and distribute it freely.
• Access: Source code is openly available for inspection and modification.
• Community: Encourages collaborative development and transparency.

2. Open Source Development Model

• Transparency: Source code is openly accessible, fostering transparency and peer review.
• Collaboration: Developers worldwide can contribute to the software’s enhancement.
• Community Involvement: Users and developers form communities to support and improve the software.

3. Features, Advantages, and Disadvantages of Open Source Software

Features:

• Access to source code for transparency and customization.
• Freedom to modify and distribute software.
• Community-driven development and support.
• Enhanced security through public scrutiny.

Advantages:

• Cost-effective, often free of charge.
• Flexibility and customization options.
• Rapid bug fixing and feature enhancements.
• Enhanced security due to community scrutiny.

Disadvantages:

• Lack of formal support channels.
• Potential for fragmented development efforts.
• Compatibility challenges with proprietary software.
• Security risks if updates are not managed effectively.

4. Licensing of Open Source Software

• Types of Licenses: Permissive (e.g., MIT, BSD) and Copyleft (e.g., GPL) licenses.
• Permissive Licenses: Allow broad use, modification, and distribution with minimal restrictions.
• Copyleft Licenses: Require derivative works to be licensed under the same terms, preserving openness.
• License Compliance: Users must adhere to license terms, including attribution and distribution of source code.