Lesson Objective
- Understand the need for a software license.
- Understand what is meant by proprietary software.
- Understand what they are legally allowed to do with open source and proprietary software.
mrahmedcomputing
KS3, GCSE, A-Level Computing Resources
Lesson 6. Software Licensing
Lesson Notes
Software Licenses
Using any software on a device necessitates a software license. Unlike hardware, which is typically sold, nearly all applications are licensed. In the UK, software falls under the protection of the Copyright Designs and Patents Act. A typical software license allows end-users to utilize one or more copies of the software according to the author’s specified terms. Ownership of the application often remains with the author. Essentially, there are two main classes of software licenses, resulting in two types of software:
- Proprietary Software
- Open-Source Software
Open-Source Software
Open source software refers to computer software that is released under a license granting users the rights to use, study, modify, and distribute both the software and its source code freely and for any purpose . Unlike proprietary or closed-source software (such as Microsoft Word or Adobe Illustrator), open source software is developed and maintained collaboratively. It is accessible to anyone for use, examination, modification, and redistribution, often without any cost. The term “open source” embodies a community-driven approach to intellectual property, emphasizing inclusivity, transparency, and frequent public updates.
Advantages
- Users can edit and customise software freely.
- There is generally a very strong social support forum if you need help.
- Usually free and good for companies with limited budgets.
- Allows collaboration with other people who may want the same modifications.
- Better versions of the software (i.e. less buggy) may appear faster than proprietary software.
Disadvantages
- Relies on support networks of other users.
- To edit the code, you need expert knowledge.
- De-bugging can be hard as no one person is necessarily responsible for the software.
- May not evolve in a strict timeframe and may not have regular updates.
- May need to buy in external support.
- Could be more open to exploitation through users adding in malicious code.
Proprietary Software
Proprietary software, also known as closed-source software, is software that is privately owned and controlled by a specific company or individual. Unlike open-source software, where the underlying code is freely accessible and can be modified by anyone, proprietary software keeps its code hidden. Users can use the software, but they cannot view or alter the inner workings. It's like having a black box—you can interact with it, but you don't know exactly how it functions inside.
Advantages
- Generally provide free customer support.
- Meet professional standards.
- Always someone to go back to if you have problems.
Disadvantages
- Cost may be significant.
- Limited to expansion by only what is available.
- Reliant on one company - what if it goes bust?
- May not fully meet the needs of the customer.