Open Source software advantages

OpenSource software has several advantages over closed or proprietary software. These revolve around the flexibility and freedom associated with OpenSource community. Consider these few in detail:

OpenSource is Insurance Against Risks to Supply and Interoperability.

Don't rely on a single source for your critical infrastructure. OpenSource software gives you real safeguards against proprietary blackmail and termination of support by closed software sources.

OpenSource Software Has a Better TCO and ROI
(TCO=Total Cost of Ownership ROI=Return On Investment)

OpenSource's TCO is comprised of training and support. Stability of the software makes that at least as affordable or better than proprietary equivalents over the long term. Mean time before failure (MTBF) of Windows is less than a week, whereas for Linux is over a year.

OpenSource Gives You Total Control Over Company Software

OpenSource software can be modified as needed to satisfy your specific needs with a minimum of expense. You only change part of the existing software, compared to the cost of writing it from scratch. OpenSource software doesn't turn itself off if after a year, or after changing hardware. Don't lose control of your business software!

OpenSource Software Is More Secure

OpenSource software is reviewed by thousands of security programmers instead of a few secretive recluses. Security is maximized by making all flaws public and fixing them. In fact, open environments are best for secure coding practices!

OpenSource Is Better Maintained and More Dependable

OpenSource software projects have hundreds or even thousands of programmers who review the code and send fixed to the core programming team. Code is written in an unrivalled open peer-review way. Software is more frequently updated. Bugs are usually fixed within hours of detection.

OpenSource Establishes a Common Computing Infrastructure

OpenSource allows you to unify your computing environment and reap the benefits of common protocols, reducing the risk that you will end up proprietary systems that can't work with other tools. This sounds like a control argument, but its really financial.