FOSS (Free and Open Source Software) is software whose source code is openly shared with anyone. In plain words, this means that anyone can freely access, distribute and modify such software. Contrary to it, proprietary software is copyrighted and the source code is not available.
Both the open source and the commercial movement have strong advocates in their ranks. One argument is that the open-source method of developing software is far superior to commercial methods. Others disagree and point out the importance of performance assurance delivered by a successful commercial company.
One thing is for sure, FOSS has come a long way since the 80s. Back then running your business on open-source software was unimaginable. Now, FOSS has made its way into the computers of many enterprises such as Amazon, IBM, and Google, just to name a few.
The times of open source software being met with skepticism by entrepreneurs and business professionals are long behind us. FOSS has become mainstream. Why? It’s simple, open-source software offers many compelling benefits to the business sector.
But, just like with anything else in life, there are two sides to the coin. Using open source in the business place has some drawbacks that need to be considered too.