Open Source Software
/ˌoʊpən ˈsɔːrs ˈsɒftwɛər/
Definitions
- (n.) Software with source code that is freely available for use, modification, and distribution under licenses that comply with recognized open source criteria.
The company adopted open source software to benefit from community-driven improvements.
- (n.) A category of software governed by legal licenses that grant users extensive rights to use, study, modify, and share the software, subject to compliance with the license terms.
Understanding open source software licenses is essential for managing legal risks in software development.
Forms
- open source software
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Legal definitions of open source software focus on licensing terms that enable user freedoms while preserving author rights; clear understanding of these licenses is crucial in drafting and compliance.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.