Transparency, Security, and Innovation: The Pillars of Open-Source Software

There is software whose source code is available to everyone. In this case, a specific programming language using certain frameworks is made available for public view. If regular applications can only be used, then open-source software can also be modified and distributed.

Open-source software is actively used in the development and operation of traditional applications and websites for digital business transformation. It is often very easy to maintain, flexible when modified, and also has increased reliability. Here are just a few examples of open-source software:

• React. One of the most popular frameworks designed for working with frontend, created by Meta company. It contains open-source code, is distributed absolutely freely, is constantly improved, and supported by the community. Angular and Vue are developed on the same principle.
• Linux. An operating system that is an alternative to Windows and macOS. It is completely free and has many different versions created by the community.
• Apache. A web server that is actively used for hosting websites on the internet.
• MySQL. A popular database management system that helps store and process large volumes of information.

Open-source software has a myriad of advantages that encourage its active use. Practically all websites and applications today, to some extent, are developed using such solutions, which are often more secure, better supported, and absolutely free.

Support and Improvement. When the source code is open, many specialists from different fields around the world have the opportunity to improve it. This software development principle, where the code is accessible not only to the team working on it, helps to find and fix bugs more quickly and add new features.

Security. The open-source code of the software can be easily checked for malicious fragments that could lead to the loss of important information, financial data, and more. Usually, too many developers monitor changes in such software, who understand what is happening in each fragment.

Flexibility. Open-source software can be easily changed at one's discretion. Yes, you can take the basic version of the application and customize it for the specific tasks of a particular business within the framework of its digital transformation. This is very useful if the set of standard capabilities is not enough.

Plus, it may also be important that open-source software is usually distributed absolutely free of charge. This helps save the budget, which is especially important for small companies. It is also important to know exactly how the creators of open-source applications make money:

• Donations. Many open-source software developers accept contributions to support and develop projects.
• Paid add-ons and services. Although the main version of the program is free, developers may sell additional features, technical support, or special versions of the program for businesses.
• Consultations and customization. Developers may offer services for customizing and adapting the program to the specific needs of clients.
• Training. Developers or other specialists may offer courses or training on how to work with the software.

In general, it is quite difficult to overestimate the role of open-source software. It has many interesting features and a lot of important advantages for both ordinary users and businesses undergoing digital transformation. It helps create higher quality, safer, and more flexible solutions.