Open Source Software
A
software whose source code is freely distributed with a license to
study, change and further distributed to anyone for any purpose is called open
source software. Open source software is generally a team effort where
dedicated programmers improve upon the source code and share the changes within
the community. Open source software provides these advantages to the users due
to its thriving communities −
- Security
- Affordability
- Transparent
- Interoperable
on multiple platforms
- Flexible due to
customizations
- Localization is
possible
Freeware
A
software that is available free of cost for use and distribution but cannot be
modified as its source code is not available is called freeware. Examples
of freeware are Google Chrome, Adobe Acrobat PDF Reader, Skype, etc.
Shareware
A
software that is initially free and can be distributed to others as well, but
needs to be paid for after a stipulated period of time is called shareware.
Its source code is also not available and hence cannot be modified.
Proprietary Software
Software
that can be used only by obtaining license from its developer after paying for
it is called proprietary software. An individual or a company can own such
proprietary software. Its source code is often closely guarded secret and it
can have major restrictions like −
- No further distribution
- Number of users
that can use it
- Type of
computer it can be installed on, example multitasking or single user, etc.
For
example, Microsoft Windows is a proprietary operating software that
comes in many editions for different types of clients like single-user,
multi-user, professional, etc
