Difference Between Open Source Software and Closed Source Software: Features & Examples
By Mukesh Kumar
Updated on Apr 08, 2025 | 8 min read | 1.56K+ views
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Every day, we use software—on our phones, computers, and even smart devices. But have you ever wondered how this software is built and who controls it?
The answer lies in two main types: open source software and closed source software. These terms may sound technical, but the concept is simple.
The main difference between open source software and closed source software is access. Open-source software lets anyone see, use, and modify the code. Closed-source software keeps the code hidden, and only the original developers can make changes.
In this blog, we’ll explain what open-source and closed-source software mean, highlight their key features, share real-life examples, and help you understand which one suits your needs best.
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Difference Between Open Source Software and Closed Source Software
Feature |
Open Source Software |
Closed Source Software |
| Source Code Access | Publicly available and viewable | Not available to the public |
| Modification Rights | Can be modified and improved by anyone | Only the owner/developer can modify |
| Cost | Usually free | Often requires payment or subscription |
| Distribution | Freely distributable | Restricted distribution rights |
| Customization | Highly customizable | Limited or no customization |
| Support | Community-driven support | Official customer support from the company |
| Transparency | High – anyone can inspect the code | Low – internal code is hidden |
| Security | Open to peer reviews and audits | Dependent on vendor updates |
| Development Model | Collaborative, community-based | Centralized, company-based |
| Examples | Linux, Firefox, WordPress, VLC | Windows, Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop, macOS |
| Updates and Fixes | Community-contributed, sometimes delayed | Regular updates from the official team |
| License Type | Open-source licenses (e.g., GPL, MIT, Apache) | Proprietary licenses |
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What is an Open Source Software?
Open-source software (OSS) is software that comes with a license allowing anyone to see, use, modify, and share its source code. Unlike proprietary software (like Microsoft Office or Adobe Photoshop), where the code is hidden and controlled by a company, open-source software is open and accessible to the public.
What is a Source Code?
Source code is the human-readable set of instructions that defines how a program works. Developers write it in programming languages like Python, Java, or C++. With open-source software, this code is freely available, so anyone can study how the software works or make improvements.
What Makes Software "Open Source"?
For software to be considered truly open source, it must follow these rules (as defined by the Open Source Initiative):
- Free Redistribution – You can share it with others.
- Source Code Availability – You can access and read the code.
- Permission to Modify – You can change it and improve it.
- No Discrimination – Anyone, anywhere can use it.
- License Must Not Be Specific to a Product – The rights apply to any version.
Advantages of Open-Source Software
Benefit |
Description |
| Free to Use | Most open-source software is free to download and use. |
| Customizable | You can change the software to meet your needs. |
| Transparent | Anyone can inspect the code to find bugs or security issues. |
| Community Support | Large communities help with troubleshooting and development. |
| Freedom | You're not locked into a single vendor or company. |
Challenges of Open Source Software
Challenge |
Description |
| Requires Technical Skills | Modifying code usually needs programming knowledge. |
| Limited Official Support | You might not get customer service like with paid tools. |
| Compatibility Issues | Some OSS may not work well with certain hardware or software. |
| Fragmentation | Too many versions or forks can confuse users. |
Popular Examples of Open-Source Software
Software |
Use Case |
| Linux | Operating system (alternative to Windows/macOS) |
| Firefox | Web browser |
| GIMP | Image editing (alternative to Photoshop) |
| WordPress | Website creation and blogging |
| Apache | Web server software |
| VLC Media Player | Media player for audio/video files |
| Python | Programming language widely used in AI, ML, and web development |
Who Uses Open-Source Software?
- Developers – For building applications and learning from existing code.
- Businesses – To reduce software costs and avoid vendor lock-in.
- Students – To learn programming and software development.
- Governments – For transparency and public benefit.
- Non-profits and startups – To access powerful tools without paying hefty fees.
Common Open-Source LicensesBest Open Source Technologies
These licenses explain how the software can be used or modified:
- MIT License – Very permissive; lets you do almost anything.
- GPL (General Public License) – Requires that any modified version must also be open source.
- Apache License – Allows modifications and redistribution with proper attribution.
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What is Closed Source Software?
Closed source software (also known as proprietary software) is software where the source code is not shared with the public. Only the original creators — usually a company — have the right to access, view, or modify the code.
This means you cannot legally change, copy, or distribute the software without permission.
In simple words, think of closed-source software as a locked recipe. You can taste the final dish (use the software), but you can’t see the ingredients or how it’s made (the source code).
Features of Closed Source Software
Feature |
Explanation |
| Source code is hidden | Only the company/developer can see or edit it. |
| No modification allowed | Users can't legally change how it works. |
| Usually paid | You often need to buy a license or subscription. |
| Official support provided | Companies offer customer service and regular updates. |
| Strict licenses | You must follow terms and conditions carefully. |
Advantages of Closed Source Software
Benefit |
Description |
| Professional support | You get dedicated help from the company. |
| More polished UI | Often comes with a user-friendly design and better UX. |
| Frequent updates | Companies push regular patches, security updates, and features. |
| Accountability | A single company is responsible for performance and fixes. |
Disadvantages of Closed Source Software
Challenge |
Description |
| Lack of freedom | You can’t change or customize the software. |
| Costly | Requires payment for licenses, upgrades, or extra features. |
| Limited transparency | You don’t know what’s happening behind the scenes (privacy/security concerns). |
| Vendor lock-in | Switching to other tools can be hard and expensive. |
Examples of Closed Source Software
Software |
Use Case |
| Microsoft Windows | Operating system |
| Adobe Photoshop | Photo editing |
| MS Office (Word, Excel) | Document and spreadsheet tools |
| macOS | Apple’s operating system |
| Zoom (basic version) | Video conferencing |
| AutoCAD | Engineering and architectural design |
Who Uses Closed Source Software?
- Enterprises – Prefer official support, accountability, and full-feature products.
- Creative Professionals – Use tools like Photoshop, Premiere Pro, etc.
- Educational Institutions – Rely on paid platforms with reliable updates.
- Government Bodies – Use secure, proprietary software for internal operations.
Similarities Between Open Source Software and Closed Source Software
- Both open-source and closed-source software are used to perform tasks, solve problems, or provide digital services.
- Open-source software and closed-source software can run on operating systems like Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- Quality doesn’t depend on the source model—many open-source and closed-source tools are equally reliable.
- Closed-source software and open-source software need regular updates for security, bug fixes, and new features.
- Most open and closed-source software provides user-friendly interfaces for easy interaction.
Must Check - Java Open Source Projects | PHP Open Source Projects
Conclusion
Open source software and closed source software are built with different goals in mind. Open source software gives users freedom, flexibility, and transparency. Closed source software focuses on control, security, and professional support.
Both types have advantages, and the best choice depends on your needs. For example, developers may prefer open source tools for customization, while businesses might rely on closed source products for reliability and official support.
Understanding the difference between open source software and closed source software helps you make smarter decisions—whether you're choosing tools for personal use, business, or a tech career.
If you’re just getting started, explore both. Learn how open source software vs closed source software works in real-world projects. This knowledge builds a strong base in software systems and helps you stay ahead in the ever-evolving tech world.
Knowing the difference between closed source vs open source software is not just helpful—it's essential in today’s digital age.
You Can Also Explore- Best Open Source Machine Learning Projects
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the main difference between open source and closed source software?
The main difference is access to the source code. Open source software allows anyone to view, modify, and share the code. Closed source software keeps the code private, controlled only by the original developers or companies.
2. How does access to source code differ between open source and closed source software?
In open source software, the source code is publicly available and editable. Anyone can inspect, modify, or improve it. In closed source software, only the original developers have access to the code, and users can't see or change it.
3. What are the advantages of open source software over closed source software?
Open source software is usually free, flexible, and highly customizable. It allows transparency, faster innovation, and community-driven support. Users can adapt the software to their needs, which is not possible with most closed source tools.
4. In what ways is closed source software more secure than open source software?
Closed source software can be more secure because its code is hidden, reducing the risk of attacks. It is managed by dedicated teams who release regular updates and patches, ensuring consistent protection against known vulnerabilities.
5. How does licensing differ between open source and closed source software?
Open source software uses licenses like MIT or GPL, which allow free use, modification, and sharing. Closed source software has proprietary licenses, which restrict access, use, and changes, often requiring users to pay for a license.
6. Are there any cost implications when choosing between open source and closed source software?
Yes. Open source software is usually free to use, which reduces upfront costs. Closed source software often requires paid licenses or subscriptions. However, open source may involve hidden costs like setup, support, or developer time.
7. How does community support differ between open source and closed source software?
Open source software relies on community forums, developers, and contributors for support. It can be quick but less formal. Closed source software offers official customer support, with dedicated help desks and structured service plans.
8. What are the typical use cases for open source software versus closed source software?
Open source is common in web development, education, and research due to flexibility and low cost. Closed source is preferred in business, design, and enterprise tools where official support, updates, and polished interfaces are critical.
9. How does customization differ between open and closed source software?
Open source software allows deep customization since users can access and edit the code. Closed source software offers limited or no customization options, as the code is restricted and only the developer can make changes.
10. What are the typical security concerns with open source software compared to closed source software?
Open source software may be more vulnerable if not regularly updated, as its code is publicly visible. Anyone can spot and misuse weaknesses. Closed source hides the code, but users must fully trust the vendor’s security practices.
11. How does the development process differ between open source and closed source software?
Open source is developed collaboratively by a community of contributors. It evolves through public input and shared innovation. Closed source is built by private teams within companies, following controlled, internal processes and timelines.
310 articles published
Mukesh Kumar is a Senior Engineering Manager with over 10 years of experience in software development, product management, and product testing. He holds an MCA from ABES Engineering College and has l...
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