What does 'open-source software' mean?

• A. Software that is free for commercial use.
• B. Software whose source code is available for modification by anyone.
• C. Proprietary software restricted to specific users.
• D. Software that automatically updates without user intervention.

Answer: (B)

Open-source software refers to software with source code that is freely available for anyone to inspect, modify, and enhance. This accessibility allows developers and users to collaborate, share improvements, and adapt the software to meet their needs or preferences. Open-source licenses typically promote transparency and community involvement, fostering innovation and rapid advancement in software development.

The concept encompasses a wide range of applications, operating systems, and programming languages, providing an alternative to proprietary software, which restricts access to the source code and often limits users to only what the vendor offers. This collaborative framework not only encourages learning and skill development but can also lead to the creation of robust and secure software solutions through community scrutiny and contributions.