Open Source
Software with publicly accessible source code that anyone can inspect, modify, and distribute.
Open Source software promotes collaboration and transparency. Anyone can view the code, report bugs, or contribute improvements. Famous examples include Linux, Bitcoin, and Python. Licensing terms (like MIT, GPL, Apache) define how the code can be used and shared. It contrasts with proprietary (closed source) software.
graph LR
Center["Open Source"]:::main
Rel_linux["linux"]:::related -.-> Center
click Rel_linux "/terms/linux"
Rel_git["git"]:::related -.-> Center
click Rel_git "/terms/git"
Rel_model_context_protocol["model-context-protocol"]:::related -.-> Center
click Rel_model_context_protocol "/terms/model-context-protocol"
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classDef pre fill:#0f172a,stroke:#3b82f6,color:#94a3b8,rx:5,ry:5;
classDef child fill:#0f172a,stroke:#10b981,color:#94a3b8,rx:5,ry:5;
classDef related fill:#0f172a,stroke:#8b5cf6,stroke-dasharray: 5 5,color:#94a3b8,rx:5,ry:5;
linkStyle default stroke:#4b5563,stroke-width:2px;
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is open source software always free?
Often yes ('free as in beer'), but it primarily refers to freedom to access code ('free as in speech'). Commercial open source exists.
Why is crypto often open source?
To ensure trust and verifiability. Users need to verify that the code controlling their money does what it claims.
Can I sell open source software?
Yes, many licenses allow selling the software or services around it, provided you comply with license terms.