What does open source software mean?

Open source software refers to software whose source code is publicly visible and can be freely accessed, used, modified and distributed by anyone. It has the following characteristics and advantages: 1. Free access and use; 2. Can be freely accessed and used by anyone. Modify and customize open source software according to the needs; 3. The source code is visible to everyone; 4. Users and developers are encouraged to participate in the development, testing, improvement and documentation of the software; 5. Open source software promotes knowledge and technology sharing.

# Operating system for this tutorial: Windows 10 system, Dell G3 computer.

Open source software refers to software whose source code is publicly visible and can be freely accessed, used, modified and distributed by anyone. Compared with traditional closed source software, the source code of open source software can be freely viewed, studied, modified and shared by users and developers.

Open source software usually follows specific open source licenses, which specify the conditions of use and rights limitations of the software. Common open source licenses include GNU General Public License (GPL), MIT license, Apache license, etc. These licenses protect the freedom of open source software and ensure that users and developers can fully utilize and contribute to the development of the software while adhering to some basic rules.

Open source software has the following characteristics and advantages:

1. Free access and use: Anyone can obtain the source code of open source software and use, copy and distribute it freely There is no need to pay or obtain a license for this software.

2. Customizable and modified: Users can modify and customize open source software according to their own needs to adapt to specific application scenarios or personal needs.

3. Transparent and verifiable: The source code of open source software is visible to everyone, which allows anyone to review the code and verify its security, stability and quality.

4. Community participation and collaboration: Open source software encourages users and developers to participate in the development, testing, improvement and documentation of the software to form an open and active community.

5. Technology sharing and innovation: Open source software promotes the sharing of knowledge and technology, allowing more people to benefit from it and create better software solutions.

Open source software has been widely used in various fields, including operating systems (such as Linux), databases (such as MySQL), Web servers (such as Apache), office software (such as LibreOffice), etc. . The open source software model brings greater flexibility, reliability and sustainable development opportunities to the software industry.

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