Closed source

Closed Source Software

Closed source software, also known as proprietary software, is software that is distributed under a licensing agreement which restricts the end-user's ability to view, modify, or distribute the source code. This type of software is the opposite of open source software, where the source code is made available to the public.

Characteristics

Closed source software is characterized by the following features:

• Restricted Access to Source Code: The source code is not shared with the public, and only the original authors or organizations have access to it.
• Licensing Agreements: Users must agree to a license that dictates how the software can be used, often prohibiting reverse engineering or redistribution.
• Proprietary Development: The development and maintenance of the software are controlled by the company or individual that owns the rights to the software.

Advantages

Closed source software offers several advantages:

• Support and Maintenance: Often, closed source software comes with professional support and regular updates from the vendor.
• Security: Some argue that closed source software can be more secure because the source code is not publicly available, potentially reducing the risk of exploitation.
• Monetization: Companies can monetize closed source software through sales, subscriptions, or licensing fees.

Disadvantages

There are also notable disadvantages to closed source software:

• Lack of Transparency: Users cannot see the source code, which can lead to trust issues regarding what the software is doing.
• Dependency on Vendor: Users are dependent on the vendor for updates, bug fixes, and support.
• Limited Customization: Users cannot modify the software to suit their specific needs.

Examples

Some well-known examples of closed source software include:

• Microsoft Windows
• Adobe Photoshop
• Apple iOS

Comparison with Open Source

Closed source software is often compared to open source software. Open source software allows users to view, modify, and distribute the source code. This can lead to greater collaboration and innovation, as seen in projects like Linux and Apache HTTP Server.

Licensing

Closed source software is typically distributed under proprietary licenses. These licenses can vary widely but generally include restrictions on copying, modifying, and redistributing the software. Common types of proprietary licenses include:

• End User License Agreement (EULA): A legal contract between the software developer and the user.
• Subscription Licenses: Users pay a recurring fee to use the software.

Conclusion

Closed source software remains a significant part of the software industry, offering benefits such as professional support and monetization opportunities. However, it also presents challenges related to transparency and user control. Understanding the differences between closed and open source software is crucial for making informed decisions about software use and development.

See Also

• Open source software
• Free software
• Software license

References

• "The Cathedral and the Bazaar" by Eric S. Raymond
• "Open Sources: Voices from the Open Source Revolution" by Chris DiBona, Sam Ockman, and Mark Stone