Open Source VS

Proprietary Software
About this project
This report explains what is open source and
proprietary software and their advantages
and disadvantages.

Contact
Ahmad Husni B Mohsin
[A152046]

Table of Content
1. Definition
2. Main differences of Open
Source and Proprietary
Software

UNIVERSITI
KEBANGSAAN
MALAYSIA

3. Advantages and Disadvantages

of Open Source and Proprietary
Software
4.

Consideration factors to
purchase software

5. The usage of Open Source

UNIVERSITI KEBANGSAAN
MALAYSIA
Bangi, Selangor Darul Ehsan,
43600, Malaysia

Program Sukan Dan Rekreasi

Fakulti Pendidikan

Definition

Open Source Software (OSS) is computer software with its source code
made available with a license in which the copyright holder provides the
rights to study, change and distribute the software to anyone and for any
purpose
Also known as non-proprietary software
Proprietary Software is a software distributed under licensing agreement
to authorize users to use the software under certain conditions, and
restricted from other uses such as modification, sharing and improvising.
Also known as closed source software.

Main Differences of Open Source and Proprietary Source

Source Code
Modification

Cost
Support

Dissemination
Example

Open Source Code

Contributed by public
Users can modify and customized according to their
usage
Potential for a more flexible technology and software
innovation
Usually free of charge
More reliable since it typically has thousands of
independent programmers testing and fixing bugs of
the software

Proprietary Software
Source Code is kept by original software developer
No modification allow

Users can install the software in their computers and

share across under users
Mozilla Firefox
Goggle Chrome

User needs obtain license/software code from

original software developer before any installation
Microsoft Windows
Adobe Photoshop

Must purchase the software

Support from original software developer

Advantages

The OSS development approach has helped produce

reliable, high quality software quickly and
inexpensively
Potential for a more flexible technology and quicker
innovation
Lower costs of marketing and logistical services are
needed for OSS. OSS also helps companies keep
abreast of technology developments. It is a good tool
to promote a companys image, including its
commercial products
More support as there are local community and more
independent programmers who can help to fix bugs
and advise

Advantages

Warranties provided
Durable and not easily damage
Secure and safer to use
Prevention of virus

Disadvantages

There are more users view and fix bugs, it may also
lead to some users who can potentially view it and
exploit any vulnerabilities.
Although this software is mostly free, there may still
be some indirect costs involved, such as paying for
external support.
There is no warranties of software provided

Disadvantages

It is expensive. Have sign a new license each time

new licensee obtain the new code
Support is limited as the only support is from the
original software developer (vendor)
Lack of flexibility as unable to customize according
to users requirements.

Support

Cost

Purpose

Consideration factors before

decide on software purchase

Why organizations use Proprietary Software

Virus free
Secure
Better quality

Identify Original Proprietary Software

Who use Proprietary Software?

Certificate of the software

Universities

Bar code/ identification code

Hospital

Packaging

Offices

PROPRIETARY SOFTWARE