When you purchase computer software from a store or download it from a website, it comes in a “compiled” format. This means that the source code created by the developer has been run through a program which translates the code into a format your computer can understand. This compiled code is nearly impossible to modify, which protects manufacturers from others stealing their products. Another name for such software could be “closed source,” because the source code is protected and inaccessible to common users.

On the flipside you have open source software, which makes the source code available to the public. This means that users can modify it and distribute it freely. In fact, this interaction is encouraged by the creators. So why would anyone take the time to create software and then give the public the opportunity to alter it and distribute it free of charge? Software developers who support the open source model believe in a collaborative effort and welcome the improvements and corrections that will come from the technological community. In this way, open source software is a direct response to the tightly guarded, and often flawed, software created by commercial companies like Microsoft.

Although some people might fear rampant abuse from such free reign, open source software is valued and respected by the programmer community. Contributors aren’t motivated by financial gain and sincerely attempt to improve it for others. This peer review system produces bug-free products that rival commercial software in their design and capabilities.