Open source: what is it exactly?

Open source includes numerous programs - from Firefox to OpenOffice. In this practical tip, we explain what exactly open source is and how it differs from other program types.

Open source: that's the reason

• "Open source" means that the source code of a software is open and freely accessible.
• So you can edit the program yourself and adapt it to your own needs. Programming skills are usually required for this.
• You can also redistribute the changed and improved program file.
• Open source applications are often free of charge. However, it is not a protected term and there is no guarantee that you will receive such programs for free. For example, some programmers require payment for the release of the source code.
• Examples of open source programs are Firefox, Gimp, OpenOffice and the VLC media player.
• Tip: You can find the 90 best open source software in our picture gallery.

What you have to consider with open source

There are also license terms for open source software. A total of over 200 different licenses regulate the handling of the free applications.

• For example, some licenses require that any modified software is also published as open source.
• One of the best known licenses is the "GNU General Public License" (GPL): Here the source code can be changed and passed on as long as the recipient is allowed to do so. In addition, all changes must be marked.

There are useful, but little-known further developments of numerous open source programs: In the next practical tip, we will compare the popular office competitor OpenOffice with the free LibreOffice, for example.