What is the Difference Between Open Source and Proprietary Software?

The main difference between open source and proprietary software lies in the accessibility and modification of the source code. Here are the key differences between the two:

Open Source Software:

The source code is publicly available, allowing anyone to read, modify, and enhance it as per its licensing agreement.
Developed and tested through open collaboration, with an open-source community of developers managing the software.
Typically free to use and modify, with community support and commercial support available for maintenance.
Examples include the web browser Firefox, the content management system WordPress, and the open-source operating systems Android and Linux.

Proprietary Software:

The source code is not publicly available, and the software is Copyrighted by an individual or company.
Developed and tested by the individual or organization that owns it, with a closed team of developers managing the software.
Often requires a valid and authenticated license to use the software, with licensing fees and restrictions on use.
Examples include most commercial software, such as Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office, and Apple's operating systems.

In summary, open source software allows users to access and modify the source code, while proprietary software keeps the source code private and requires a license for use. Open source software is often free and collaboratively developed, whereas proprietary software is typically more expensive and developed by a closed team of developers.

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What is the Difference Between Open Source and Proprietary Software?

Comparative Table: Open Source vs Proprietary Software

Here is a table comparing the differences between open-source and proprietary software:

Feature	Open Source Software	Proprietary Software
Definition	Software with a publicly available source code, developed and maintained by a community of developers.	Software with a non-public source code, owned and controlled by an individual or organization.
Access	Open access, allowing anyone to use, modify, and distribute the software.	Restricted access, with usage subject to the terms and conditions of the software owner.
Ownership	Not owned by any individual or organization, but managed by an open-source community of developers.	Owned by an individual or organization, with the owner controlling the development, distribution, and modifications.
Development	Developed and maintained through open collaboration, with community support and commercial support available for maintenance.	Developed and tested by the individual or organization that owns it.
Customization	Allows users to study, modify, and distribute the software, making it more flexible and customizable.	Limited customization, as the source code is protected and changes can only be made by the owner or with their permission.
Examples	Ubuntu, Firefox, Open Office, Android, Linux, VLC Media Player, and others.	Windows, macOS, Adobe Flash Player, Google Earth, Skype, and others.

In summary, open-source software is characterized by its publicly available source code, community-driven development, and flexibility, while proprietary software is controlled by its owner and offers restricted access and customization.

Guilherme Mazui

Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.