Closed-source software are third-party products that use source code that has not been released to the public, and do not include the option to share the source code with everyone, as no one will be able to see or change it. This allows the organization to sell its software to others because it cannot be changed, or copied. Closed-source software approach provides organizations with greater control over their user experience and brand message, because their software is not open to the public, nor is it free.
What is closed source software?
Closed source software is a non-free program, where the source code is protected and encrypted unlike open source software , whether you use closed source software, you will not be able to copy, modify, or delete parts of the code, and only closed software developers can deal with the code source code, and make improvements and fixes to the software.
Closed-source software cannot be widely distributed because of the license that protects it. Examples of closed-source software include Windows and Microsoft Office.
Should you stay absent from proprietary operating systems?
Choosing the best type of software, whether closed source or open source, depends on your business needs and goals, so the answer to this question is ultimately up to you. Their software, which means that non-stop development is up to them only, while updating and developing open source software is based on comprehensive cooperation, and as a result development and fixes generally continue indefinitely because the source code is available to all users.
Open source software has a strong advantage that makes it better than closed source, which is that it is non-stop forever, unlike closed source software that may stop working at any time when the manufacturer wants it. As for open source software, you can get updates, features, or fixes New longevity.
Disadvantages of closed source software
Customers have little control over security related aspects.
Customers rely on updates from the manufacturer even when there are serious security vulnerabilities.
Closed-source software makes customers rely solely on the manufacturer.
Customers have to pay to modify the program to suit their own needs.
The difference between closed source and open source software
The concept of closed source software contrasts with open source, in the case of open source software, anyone can view the source code and modify it completely freely, this means that every person with technical experience will be able to understand how this program works in detail, and therefore will be able to modify the code, or Completing its shortcomings in order to create a modified version of the software that is better suited to specific use cases, and it is also allowed to publish such changes.
This is not possible with proprietary (closed source) software. The source code can only be modified by its creator or authorized person, who are the only ones able to access and modify it, and the closed source software manufacturer charges a fee to modify the program in accordance with the needs of each user.
Open source software is often free, or at a relatively low fee, and you can use it totally freely, and closed source software manufacturers sell products to customers for use only within the scope of the license terms.
Safety
The security of closed source and open source software is controversial because they both have their pros and cons. You can view, share, and modify the open source code for everyone, which means anyone can fix, upgrade, and test the faulty code, as the security flaw is constant. It’s super fast, and the code is thoroughly checked after each release, though since the source code is open, hackers will be able to practice with it.
On the contrary, closed source software can only be fixed by the manufacturer, if something goes wrong with the software you will have to send a request, and wait for a response from the support team, and it can take longer to solve the problem compared to open source, but when it comes to By choosing the most secure software, the answer is that both have advantages and disadvantages.
support quality
By comparing support between open source and closed source programs, we find that closed source is the victor, as you will get permanent support at any time, and the response will be organized, and well documented, as for open source programs, such an option is not if, the only support options are there Are forums, articles, and expert opinions.
Availability of source code
Open source software provides the ability to change the source code without any restrictions. Users can develop whatever they want, take advantage of innovations developed by others within the user community, and since the source code is easily accessible, software developers can improve existing software.
Closed source software is more restrictive than open source software because the source code cannot be changed, or displayed, however this restriction may contribute to the security and reliability of closed source software.
The most famed examples of closed source software
Most of the operating systems, databases, applications, and common programs available today are closed sources. Examples of closed source software include:
Microsoft Windows
It is a graphic operating system produced by Microsoft, which dominates the market for personal and desktop computers in the world, with a share of more than 90 percent of the market, outperforming operating systems such as Mac, and the latest version of Windows is Windows 11, and the latest version for servers is Windows Server 2022.
Skype
This is a closed source communication application that allows people to convey with through voice and video calls using mobile devices, computers, or tablets.
Avast
It is a closed source computer protection program that has many features such as antivirus protection, threat scans, browser protection, etc.
Microsoft Office
It is a closed source software that includes numerous applications that are used to perform particular tasks, for example Microsoft Word for creating text documents, PowerPoint for presentations, Microsoft Outlook for emails, Microsoft Excel for spreadsheets, etc.
Adobe reader
This software helps people perform complex tasks such as editing and signing PDF files, annotating them, and has other functions, including opening PDF files and converting Word documents to PDF, and it is a closed source software.
