Open source is source code that is made freely available for possible modification and redistribution. Products include permission to use and view the source code, [1] design documents, [2] or content of the product.

Open source software is software with source code that anyone can inspect, modify, and enhance. "Source code" is the part of software that most computer users don't ever see; it's the code computer programmers can manipulate to change how a piece of software—a "program" or "application"—works.

Under Perens' definition, open source is a broad software license that makes source code available to the general public with relaxed or non-existent restrictions on the use and modification of the code.

The Open Source Initiative (OSI) has released its strategic roadmap for 2025, outlining critical initiatives designed to reinforce its role as a central authority in the Open Source ecosystem.

Jan 5, 2021 · What does Open-source mean? The term Open-source is closely related to Open-source software (OSS). Open-source software is a type of computer software that is released under a license, but the source code is made available to all the users.

What is open source and how does it work? The term open source refers to any program whose source code is made available for use or modification as users or other developers see fit. Unlike proprietary software, open source software is computer software that is developed as a public, open collaboration and made freely available to the public.

Open source software (OSS) refers to software containing source code that can be viewed, edited, and shared for both commercial and noncommercial use. Anyone with a software license is free to access, edit, and distribute the code.

Sep 22, 2022 · Open-source software is software whose code is free to view, modify, and distribute. It’s usually created and maintained by a community of volunteer Software Developers who collaborate on websites like GitHub .

Jul 7, 2006 · Open source doesn’t just mean access to the source code. The distribution terms of open source software must comply with the following criteria: 1. Free Redistribution.

Mar 11, 2025 · The OSI is a non-profit organization recognized globally by individuals, companies and public institutions as the authority that defines Open Source for software and AI. The UN Open Source Principles are comprised of eight guidelines and provide a framework to guide the use, development and sharing of Open Source software across the ...