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Everything about Open-source software

Software licensed to ensure source code usage rights

Open-source software (OSS) is computer software released under a license allowing users to use, study, modify, and distribute it to anyone for any purpose – in contrast to proprietary (closed-source) software. These abilities are typically granted through open licenses or, more rarely, by dedication to the public domain. The development of open-source software can be based on open collaboration, a decentralized model of production. Open-source software is commonly defined according to The Open Source Definition of the Open Source Initiative, but the precise meaning of "open source" remains contentious. Wikipedia →

🧭 Start here: a 6-step reading path

  1. Read the overview: Open-source softwareA 5-minute orientation
  2. Skim a recent paper: SPM 25: open source neuroimaging analysis softwareInfluential work since 2022
  3. Pick up a classic book: Introduction to AlgorithmsThe most-reprinted book on the subject
  4. Read the landmark paper: QUANTUM ESPRESSO: a modular and open-source software project for quantum simulations of materialsCited 23,933 times
  5. Go sideways: Alternative terms for free softwareA closely related topic
  6. Go sideways: Free and open-source softwareA closely related topic

📖 Definitions

No dictionary entry for this exact phrase.

🗂️ The subject at a glance

  1. Definitions and controversies
  2. Software ownership
  3. Open-source software development
  4. Opportunities for participation
  5. Legal and economic issues
  6. Open software movement
  7. Comparisons with other software licensing/development models
  8. Society and culture
  9. Adoption and application
  10. Value

🏆 Landmark papers (most cited)

🆕 Influential since 2022

📚 Books worth reading

Ranked by number of editions on Open Library, a rough measure of how lasting a book is.

🔗 Related topics