Open Source Software

A type of software that provides the source code for its workings, allowing users to use, modify, copy, improve and distribute the product free of charge. Keep in mind that while Open Source software often has dedicated forums for assistance and support, you are not always guaranteed the same quality, speed or type of help that you would normally get from a vendor, that is, it does not come with an?SLA. Likewise, the cost of managing and modifying Open Source Software can often greatly exceed the cost of a commercial product, including its associated maintenance costs.