Concept of Open Source Technology
🔹 Definition:
Open Source Technology refers to software whose source code is made publicly available. It allows users to view, modify, and distribute the code freely.
🔸 Key Characteristics:
-
Free Access to Source Code
-
Community Collaboration
-
Transparency & Flexibility
-
Continuous Development & Innovation
-
No Licensing Cost (mostly)
🔹 Advantages:
-
Cost-effective (Free to use)
-
Enhanced security (code review by many)
-
Customizability
-
Avoids vendor lock-in
🔸 Examples of Open Source Software:
| Software Name | Type |
|---|---|
| Linux | Operating System |
| Apache | Web Server |
| Mozilla Firefox | Web Browser |
| LibreOffice | Office Suite |
| MySQL | Database |
| Python | Programming Language |
🔹 Open Source Licenses:
-
GNU General Public License (GPL)
-
MIT License
-
Apache License
🔸 Difference: Open Source vs Closed Source
| Feature | Open Source | Closed Source |
|---|---|---|
| Source Code Access | Yes | No |
| Cost | Usually Free | Usually Paid |
| Modification | Allowed | Not allowed |
| Example | Linux, Firefox | Windows, MS Office |
📝 MCQ Questions on Open Source Technology
-
Which of the following is an open-source operating system?
a) Windows
b) macOS
c) Linux
d) iOS
✅ Answer: c) Linux
-
The full form of GPL in software is:
a) General Privacy License
b) General Public License
c) Government Protected License
d) GNU Private License
✅ Answer: b) General Public License
-
Which of the following is NOT open source software?
a) MySQL
b) Microsoft Word
c) Python
d) Apache
✅ Answer: b) Microsoft Word
-
Which license allows free distribution and modification of source code?
a) GPL
b) EULA
c) Demo License
d) OEM License
✅ Answer: a) GPL
-
Open source software promotes:
a) Piracy
b) Hidden code
c) Collaboration
d) High pricing
✅ Answer: c) Collaboration