Open Source
Are you unfamiliar with the term Open Source or do you not know exactly what we use Open Source for?
No problem - just read on
What is Open Source anyway?
What is Open Source used for?
What are the benefits of Open Source?
What is Open Source?
- Transparent
The source code is public and accessible to everyone. This means that there are no functions hidden from users.
- Creates trust
Anyone can adapt/extend the source code or correct any errors. Everyone has complete control over the use and thus the functions.
- Public licenses
The use of Open Source software is regulated by different license models. The use of the software and its functions is free. The wheel does not have to be redeveloped for each project.
What is Open Source used for?
- Operating systems
- Linux is probably the best-known Open Source project. From embedded systems to supercomputers to every Android phone, Linux is used more often in our everyday lives than most people realize.
- Software development
- The use of Open Source software is an indispensable part of a software developer's everyday life. Git as a version control system, MariaDB for databases or Arduino for embedded development.
- Server infrastructures
- Whether cloud, virtualization or high-availability clusters. In the hosting market, the use of Open Source software from the operating system to system administration is considered standard.
- Security
- As soon as software is used in critical infrastructure and data protection and data security are important, Open Source software is indispensable and is considered best practice.
- Mobile applications
- Over 82% of all smartphones worldwide run on Android. The Android platform is based on the Linux operating system and is itself Open Source software.
- IoT
- In order to ensure the necessary flexibility and interoperability of the various IoT devices, the use of Open Source is a prerequisite.
- KI/AI
- Machine learning, AI and LLM projects use Open Source technologies such as TensorFlow or PyTorch - these technologies are state of the art in the field.
What are the advantages of Open Source?
- Transparency
Open source code enables unrestricted testing before the software is used. Security gaps can be identified and fixed more quickly thanks to the 'many eyes'. Every change to the source code can be traced.
- Faster innovation
Through global communities, Open Source projects benefit from the latest technologies and further developments. This means that the quality of the software is constantly improved - regardless of budget and time problems.
- Flexibility
If necessary, the code of Open Source software can be adapted and expanded to suit your own needs at any time.
- Trust
The transparency mentioned creates trust in use. The elimination of security gaps and the worldwide use create well-tested and stable projects.
- Cost savings
The transparent licensing models avoid hidden costs. Often the use of Open Source is completely free, even in the commercial sector.
- Future-proof
In contrast to proprietary software, the use of Open Source software does not create a dependency on a specific provider (vendor lock-in). If an Open Source project is abandoned by the manufacturer, the project can be continued by anyone at any time.