What Is Open Source?

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Open Source, of the software type, is an umbrella term for software whose code base (or underlying design plan) is available for public use and scrutiny. It is usually maintained by a community of volunteers or by paid employees of companies that also utilize the software in business. There are many popular open source projects that range from stand alone operating systems like Ubuntu to online developmental frameworks like Ruby on Rails.

While open source can at first seem a little confusing, the benefits are very clear. Privately developed and marketed software is considered “closed source” because interested parties cannot download the code base for personal reuse or examination. Popular closed source programs would be Microsoft Windows or Adobe Photoshop. Open source software is often free to download and reuse.

Some of the open source projects that commonly pop up in our projects are content management systems, blogging software, and forum software. Here are some popular ones:

• Wordpress. A popular, free, and open source blogging software that runs online.
• Drupal. A free content management system. It is open source and quite popular.
• Joomla!. While not as popular as Drupal, Joomla! is also free and open source.
• PunBB. A common, free, and open source forum software that enables visitors to have conversations.

By utilizing these open source programs (and many, man more), Mid Missouri Web Design stays at the front of the curve and keeps prices low. Because we have hundreds of eyes scanning your site’s design, your’s will be among the most secure on the internet.