Open Source versus Closed Source
Most computer software, if not all, use source code. Source code refers to the technical blueprint the controls the functioning of a program (Viega & McGraw, 2011). As the software developer releases the finished product to users, they decide on whether the code should be an open source or closed source.
An open source refers to free cost software that uses free codes on the Internet. The codes are readily available, and the user can copy, modify or delete the codes (Sirshar, Ali & Ibrahim, 2019). It also enables users and organizations to update, improve and expand it continually. Users of open source can also customize the software freely to suit their needs. On the other hand, a closed source is a closely guarded software source which purchased, and the cost may vary depending on the complexity of the software. Closed source software enables only the proprietor to make changes in its code. It is only the original authors who can access, copy, or alter the software. Users pay for usage of the software, but cannot purchase it.
The question of security is an instrumental component of any software. In open source, users can view, share, and modify the software code (Viega & McGraw, 2011). It enables any user to fix hit’s bugs, upgrade, and test the broken software code. As much as it may be easy for users to quickly fix the bugs quickly and conduct a thorough check on the code upon release, the open availability of the code exposes the software to hackers, making it unsafe for use. Hackers may add malwares, which may cause threats to computers (Viega & McGraw, 2011). aOn the other hand, closed source software allows only the vendor to fix the software code. In case of a bug, the user can only request to support team and wait for a response. Compared to open source, solving a problem may take a longer (Sirshar, Ali & Ibrahim, 2019). The closed source is the most secure software. Open source is customizable, whereas closed source is unified.
References
Sirshar, M., Ali, A., & Ibrahim, S. (2019). Comparative analysis between open source and closed source software in terms of complexity and quality factors. Preprints, 1(1), 1-7.
Viega, J., & McGraw, G. (2011). Building secure software: How to avoid security problems the right way. Addison-Wesley Professional.