Linux operating systems can give you significantly more control over your computer than any operating system made by Apple or Windows. That’s largely because Linux software is open source, which means you can see the coding and even revise it to suit your own needs. Every piece of free software is seen as a collective work in progress.

It is important to consider how different that perspective is from those used by big software companies. Even the most common Linux operating system, Ubuntu, is free and customizable. Windows, on the other hand, costs hundreds of dollars. What do you pay for when you buy Windows? Well, it is suited for people that don’t know much about computers. Anyone with much familiarity, though, will find that Linux freeware fits their needs much better.

Linux also gives users the opportunity to participate in a community of people that believe in open source coding. Computer programming has become a collective endeavor. Anyone trying to write a large program on his or her own would face a herculean task. That person would quite possibly go insane before reaching the end of the project. That’s why Windows hires so many people to write code for them.

When you use open source coding with free Linux software, though, you are strapped to a desk eight to ten hours a day. Nor, however, are you getting paid. Instead, you are collaborating others in an intellectual community that wants to improve technology for personal use.

It is almost like volunteering.

Of course, you don’t have to write code to enjoy Linux software. Programmers, however, tend to be the people spotting problems with most popular software, so they naturally want to fix the bad code that they find or customize the code to suit their specific needs.

Although the phrase “open source” is being used more and more in the computer and technological world, the idea of open source is not new. One very simple and direct example of open source (as it does not only apply to computers and technology) is recipe swapping.

Okay—let’s see if we can “man it up” a little bit. In the early years of automotive production, only a handful of people had access to the information that was needed to build a two-cycle engine. The information had been patented, and sharing this information freely was not an option. Henry Ford challenged the right of the original patent owner to withhold such information and won the challenge. That victory led to automobile manufacturers eventually sharing information that would lead to increased automobile production.

Today, however, the phrase “open source” is being used almost exclusively in the computer and technology areas. For this reason, the meaning has undergone an almost complete transformation: one that now primarily involves computer software. The best example of “open source” as it applies to computers and technology is the Linux operating system.

The Linux operating system does not “belong” to any one person or corporation. Rather, it is a cooperative and collaborative effort among many people. Because of this, you will now frequently see the words “open source” paired with “software” as a way of describing the Linux operating system and similar ones.

Open source software has a lot of advantages. For one thing, its availability and the fact that it is free (in most cases) can provide tremendous assistance to people who otherwise might not have access to important information that can help them in their business (for example, access to top affiliate programs). This gives them a better chance of succeeding in an increasingly competitive world, which can have far-reaching effects

You are a master of the dollar – your every moment is dedicated to finding the best ways to spare your pennies and keep your savings secure. Technology, you are certain, is not meant to consume your profits (as it already consumes your attention). It is instead to be given freely, without the usual high costs and higher frustrations. And this, of course, has led you to seek out software that is without pricing, that is instead offered easily. You take it all, wanting to avoid the usual expense and instead create source codes that will do precisely what you need. But that, you soon discover, isn’t as simple as you thought it would be.

Because, although you chose freeware, you did not choose free and open software.

The difference between these ideas is often blurred. The names are almost identical and the meanings often overlap. But there are elements that distinguish them from each other and you must learn these to ensure that you make the proper choices.

Freeware: simply explained, freeware are programs that do not require your money. They can instead be downloaded without concern. They are not, however, always able to be changed. Their source codes can instead be heavily copyrighted. This allows them to be used but not modified or distributed.

Free and Open Software: unlike its freeware counterpart, this application can instead be altered. It is both free and unprotected; which ensures it can therefore be manipulated and then given to others. Its rules are vague and its limitations are almost non-existent.

This distinction is minimal, with many users commonly exchanging these terms, thinking them to be of the same purpose. They are not. While all free and open software can be considered freeware, all freeware cannot be considered both free and open. And this must be understood to guarantee that the selections you make are the ones you desire.

It takes more in this world to succeed than a good product and a good reputation. Too often do lesser forces triumph over those who have proven themselves to be the better efficiencies, the easier rewards. Fairness is rarely common. It is instead forgotten in the wake of clever marketing and familiar brands. And the Linux company has suffered from that – while it is known to be a user-friendly option (with its open source philosophies and free components), it too often overlooked in the wake of Microsoft and Macintosh. It is the ignored sibling, trying to scramble after those who have taken all of the glory.

This is not to be tolerated.

And so the Linux Foundation was formed, with a purpose of redefining public perception and helping to generate awareness; as well as to ensure the foundations of the program are maintained and kept available for all individuals.

The Linux Foundation was began in 2007 when two vocal (but unknown to the casual user) supporters merged: the Open Source Development Labs and the Free Standards Group. These organizations joined to make sure that the ideologies of Linux – such as open sources and mass distribution – would be upheld. They each sought to promote and protect the program, addressing such issues as: trademarks, legalities and providing forums for users to offer advice and concerns.

And those concerns have been answered with the Linux Foundation developing new projects and components. Through it the software has become better defined within the public and has grown in recognition to almost five percent of the desktop accumulation (an impressive number when compared to the household awareness of its competition). The Foundation has helped to foster new interest and intends to continue doing so.

Linux is not the most popular of brands. It is, however, one of the most eagerly supported. And the Foundation will prove this again and again.

No software – however worthy, however innovative – can survive in a singular form. There must be more to it than clever codes; there must instead be the application of those codes to all parts of the world. Technology must be offered in every possible way, with the modern user demanding to find it in more than his home. It must go where he goes and it must provide everything he needs. There are, after all, questions to be answered and riddles to be solved. And this would be impossible if software couldn’t be used in more than one realm.

Linux was once thought to be such a realm: singular, incompatible, without value. There seemed to be no way to let the open source program filter into more than its established setting. There seemed instead to be just an imminent failure.

That failure didn’t occur.

Because Linux is now a multi-functional tool, able to be used in all the necessary ways:

1. Desktop. The most prominent (and popular) user form of the Linux kernel is found in its desktop form. The free software has proven effective, allowing individuals to create a home experience that they truly want. Applications from other companies – such as Microsoft and Macintosh – can be used as well, ensuring that no advantage is lost.

2. Embedded Linux. Entering the world of the smart-phone is never easy; but Linux has managed to claim almost 17 percent of the market with its programming. Users can tailor their devices to what they need, allowing all tasks to be completed.

3. Servers. Mainframes require immense power and immense potential. Linux provides that. Over 90 percent of the world’s largest (and most impressive) supercomputers are operated on this software.

It was once believed to be incompetent. Now, however, Linux has become a strong presence without the virtual world – with its popularity growing each year.

It’s a common confusion, a misunderstanding of copyrights and their longevity: software is offered to the world, claimed to be an open source; but you worry still over the possible legalities, the extent of distribution. Can a program truly be traded? Will it be scrutinized by its original manufacturers, deemed stolen? The questions loom, leaving you searching for answers, constantly scouring the forums for facts. They’re often difficult to find – definitions vary and applications are unsure. The notion of “free” is given easily but it’s burdened still by indecision: worthwhile or inferior, secure or dangerous? And you discover no relief in deciding what can be used and what can’t.

The truth, however, is simple: if a piece of software has slipped into public domain, it can then be claimed by you for any purpose.

Public Domain is the intellectual emptiness after conception and copyright. Works found within it can be chosen by any user and modified again and again, without any concern of retribution. They are free but their purpose is not limited to that (there are, after all, countless free softwares to try that are still protected). This notion instead allows for any program to be taken by an individual and altered completely, only to be redistributed later as a separate product.

Public Domain software ensures that the user is kept from any legal woes or guilt. There can be no criminal charges or fines. This is an application without creator (or at least one that chose to let his copyright slip). It is therefore the property of any who wish to take it.

And this becomes the only true guarantee with free software. There are no penalties or confusions; there are no debates over ownership. There is instead the ability to take a source code and manipulate it as you desire. The Public Domain is without question or refute. Use it.

All great ideas are began after witnessing good ones. This distinction seems meager but it is clearly proven in the consequences: the brilliant must be inspired by the necessary, and through this can innovation come. This is offered in the evolution of Linux and its open software. This brand was not merely formed, shaped from impulse and potential. It was instead given definition when faced with a concept that worked… but not in the all the wanted ways.

Linux was formed in 1991 by Finnish programmer Linus Torvalds. While attending the University of Helsinki, Torvalds was introduced to the Miniux – an inventive software that could replicate the processes of the original Unix device but was available instead for education. The Miniux was an open software platform that enabled teachers and students to better understand their research. Its purpose was to explain the methods of its creator, Andrew S. Tanenbaum, in a standard C language.

Torvalds was impressed by this program. Its potential was staggering and its methods were unique. But it was still limited to the university and its students. It could not be traded freely or distributed between users. And it was this that began the exploration of computers and their possibilities – which in turn would lead to the creation of Linux.

Through the invention of Miniux (which was a deviation of other programs and the knowledge of the time), Torvalds was able to channel the abilities of free software and open source codes into an accessible force. The results were immediate and well championed – except by Tanenbaum, who considered the Linux system to be an inferior copy of his process due to its monolithic kernel; rather than the Miniux’s micro one.

This controversy between the two creators did not deter users from discovering Linux, however. Instead the program became a rival for already established brands and was implemented in a wide variety of devices. Without the Miniux, though, Linux would have never been formed. The two are linked in importance and history.

In a long history of brilliant technological ideas (some of which you like to think were yours), there is one that perhaps shames them all, a concept so unique that it can never be replicated or refined: free software. Proving that manufacturers could no longer dictate what was needed, these programs were offered as alternatives to the common assumptions. They did not require dollars. They did not force limitations. They instead allowed individuals to find a source code and open it wide, playing with the language until it offered something entirely new. And from this innovation spawned an ease and convenience that cannot be denied.

It can, however, be disputed.

Free software has attracted much acclaim since its invention in 1983 (where a movement was formed to promote its usage over the more standard pay-ware). But that acclaim has been followed by several criticisms – none more prominent than the accusations of these programs claiming too much of the needed revenue from companies.

It is an easy fear to understand: with the introduction of free software, users no longer had to rely on manufacturers to provide them with what they needed (or often what they didn’t need but were forced to take). They could instead develop their applications as they chose, no longer having to wait for their desires to be met. They didn’t have to pay. They didn’t have to hesitate.

And companies were quick to protest. Beyond the obvious copyright concerns, free software has been estimated to have claimed over 50 billion dollars a year from traditional programs since it began. Such a loss has all major brands naming these methods without merit. They are considered little more than thefts.

This is not, however, true. Free software is designed to be distributed and revised. It is not ignoring the rules; it is merely changing them. And companies will have to understand this and find ways to compete.

It is the easiest of assumptions: a source code is challenged, believed to be without the common restrictions. It can instead be manipulated, made into something far greater than its makers intended. It can be mastered, understood line by line, until it offers all of its many possibilities; each destined to be shared with the world. You will create new programs and all will marvel at your cleverness. But, as you try to distribute your inventions, you find that you… can’t. Your free software has failed.

This is possibly because it was never a free software to begin with. It may have instead been an open source.

A confusion shared by many burgeoning software creators is the difference between free programs and their open source companions. Many think these ideas to be the same, separated only by their names. This is not true. There is instead a distinct (however delicate) difference between them that must be understood. And such understanding will prove vital in your quest to provide the Internet with its greatest offerings.

Free Software: encompassing a wide variety of programs, free software is distinguished by a flexible copyright. These are programs that can be shared between several users without warnings from their makers. They lack the usual licensing worries and can be distributed without fear of penalty. Their title does often refer to their minimal costs as well.

Open Source Code: while found within the free software realm, the open source is given more restrictions. While its language can be shifted, it must only be sent into the world if it maintains it original licensing. It is never to be offered as new product and must give credit to its foundations. Distribution permission must be clearly marked within the copyright.

Understanding the difference between these choices is essential for any would be programmer. An open source may be free but any free software may not be an open source. Know this before attempting any changes.

The online world is defined to possibility. There are no boundaries that can’t be crossed (and shattered). There are no concerns that can’t be broken, pieced back together into a new sensibility. Limitations do not–and should not–exist. But too many are still assumed within software and its source codes. Individuals without the expected experiences believe these codes to be stagnant, unable to be recreated or perfected. They’re certain that each line of indecipherable language must remain as it was intended: without change or improvement.

This is not true.

Source codes can instead be shaped into endless options, as long as they are deemed open and able.

During the 1990′s a philosophy of free software emerged. Those who devoted their time to the virtual playgrounds demanded more than company standards and forced restrictions. They wished instead to explore, to understand how every program could be developed beyond its original intent – and from this came the notion of the open source.

Simply explained: this movement allowed individuals to take established codes and reinvent them, making the necessary modifications and improvements (as well as also learning the ways of computers. The process became a valuable aid to those not yet familiar with syntax). Through this new programs could then be passed among users, in a constant state of transition and rebirth.

This became the open source. Those softwares were without the usual copyrights or license woes. They were instead formed for the distinct purpose of change. And all users were able to access the true potential found in each. This allowed for a wealth of new designs within the Internet and radically changed the previous notions.

There are, of course, criticisms of the open source. Many believe it to disregard established copyrights or to encourage a lack of money exchange. Programs, detractors argue, no longer must be purchased by the many. They can instead be taken by the few and then sent into the Internet for free downloads.

This has not subdued the popularity of the open source, however, and the movement is still an undeniable part of the online world.

But there is no company to call. There is no factory to contact. The manufacturer has no knowledge of this open source software. It has been passed through too many eager hands, shifted again and again. And you are left believing there is nothing for you to do.

You are wrong.

Finding the proper support with open source applications is possible. It merely requires more than the typical avenues. You must ignore the long pauses of customer service and the automated responses. They will offer no relief. Their words will explain only the program’s first purpose. They won’t understand what has been done to it and they will not pretend to. Their responsibility is only to their software, not to what it has become.

And so you must instead seek out forums dedicated to open sources. Look to others with more knowledge (specifically of the program you have downloaded) to offer the needed answers. The result may not be instantaneous but it will still be given in terms you can comprehend.

Should those terms take too long to be provided, though, you may instead seek out a freelance designer; who can then offer quick service and certainty. These individuals do require payment, however, and may cost more than your budget can allow. Choose wisely.

Open source software is an undeniable reward. It can also, however, be an undeniable frustration. Ignore the company responses and search for those like yourself – individuals who wish to create better applications and better online experiences.

Technology is to improve lives, to relieve the burden that comes from obligations and daily concerns. It is meant to inspire progress and invention, helping to ease the exchange of ideas and their possibilities. Linux is a company founded on such principles. Since its conception it has offered a revolutionary approach to software and its potential: it is to be traded, passed between users; with its codes changed and its purposes shaped to the unexpected. These programs (defiers of the common licenses) allow individuals to experiment with applications. And this has provided a new movement within the Internet.

And such a movement is made possible by Linux’s reliance on the Copyleft rule.

Defined simply: the Copyleft rule is a way to ensure ideas can be exchanged freely between users without incurring the wrath of companies. When a program is modified under this process it is allowed to be sent into the virtual world, able to be downloaded by others (and then shaped into what they desire). But, unlike the usual copyrights that demand all software be purchased and no source changes be made, these Linux choices ensure that the programs are free – and remain so. While individual applications may have their own requirements, Copyleft guarantees that they can still be used by all.

And it is this guarantee that brands Linux an innovation. The majority of companies refuse to entertain this concept, believing it to be unworthy. Their concerns are profits and the monopoly of all users’ attentions. Their source codes are carefully protected and kept from the Internet. Any changes will result in severe penalties… or worse.

Linux, however, was formed on the need for reinvention; and its use of these free softwares has led it to become a popular alternative to the more famed (and more rigid) manufacturers. Its Copyleft mentality is proof of its want for progress and it seeks only to ensure that ideas are never stifled. Software is to be the ally of all, not a restriction.

Open source softwares are undeniably tempting. They have revolutionized the notion of programs and their limits. Caution, however, must be given when considering them. Because, while their advantages are plentiful, their concerns are still apparent:

1. Viruses. A download requires trust – that the information will be accurate, that the code will be pure. Often it is. There are times, though, when free software is infected with vicious spy-ware and hard-drive dissolving viruses. Before making any decisions, you must be aware of this possibility and choose only reputable sites and programmers.

2. Lack of support. Open source codes are easy appeals. Their ability to change (and be changed) marks them perfect for those needing more than the standard purposes. Losing those purposes, however, leaves you without the necessary help. Manufacturer’s will not assist you with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your software. Once it has been modified it is no longer their obligation. It will instead be yours.

3. Experience required. The casual programmer wants always to learn, to translate the language of computers into an understandable expression. Those just beginning with open source softwares, though, may struggle. Without precise knowledge (as well as the appropriate hours to devote to mastery) of them, these applications can baffle.

Free software should not be avoided. It must, however, be recognized for both its ingenuity and its implications. There are dangers to find. You must instead combat them with caution and research.

There is a misconception among the masses – those individuals unaware of the intricacies that dominate their computers, the essential (but too often overlooked) components that define software and its abilities. Programs, despite the assumptions, are not universal, extensions of the same needs, the same standards. Data is instead filtered through a variety of methods; each meant to ensure that a hard-drive does not collapse beneath the weight of its user’s demands. Software is not simply a name for every application. It is instead a diverse collection of intents. And understanding the difference between those intents is necessary. They must be learned before they can be used… or fixed.

It is a common error to attempt the same solutions on every piece of software. This only leads to complications, though. There are three distinct categories to be considered and each should be recognized for its particular duties. This is the only way to guarantee issues being solved. Should any appear, remember:

1. System software. Offering a foundation of support, system software provides aid throughout the entire computer. It controls the hardware, maintaining all functions and security procedures. It also determines where resources should be sent, should any problems occur, and controls memory. It is the most valuable of all elements.

2. Programming software. Ensuring that applications succeed, programming software offers assistance to all developmental components; such as linkers and compilers. It keeps all internal programs functioning. It is not to be confused with system software, which deals specifically with hardware. They are separate entities, despite their similar functions.

3. Application software. Unlike its counterparts, application software does not entail security issues or computer concerns. It instead deals only with the task-based functions; such as streaming videos, uploading images or creating spreadsheets. It is the most common of the three and the one most recognized by users.

Understanding the (sometimes subtle) difference between these programs is essential for any individual–however infrequent their time may be on the computer. Learn what these softwares represent and how they ultimately relate to you.

Software is to be without limits – source codes are to be forever open, available to an ever curious public and their machinations. Companies are to supply programs but must not refuse their evolution. They must instead encourage it, allowing consumers to create what they desire and transform every application. Such a philosophy was once thought to be novel, with most dismissing it as impossible (or simply the desires of those unwilling to spare their dollars to purchase the latest softwares). But this once impracticality has become instead a contender among the virtual world; and it is through it that the concepts of digital property has been redefined.

The Free Software Movement began in 1983 with a singular purpose of changing how individuals were forced to comply with companies. Founder Richard Stallman – a programming pioneer – wished to remove the usual licenses and restrictions found within software; which severely limited how much users could shape source codes and their intentions. The point of the computer, Stallman argued, was not to be kept to constant rules; it was instead to dismiss the need for them.

And so the Movement began, formed by the establishment of the GNU Project – a principle that promoted distribution among individuals and software that would not be trapped to the typical copyrights. This concept shocked the online world, with some naming it crude (a disregard of the laws and needed regulations). Others, however, saw it for what it was: the revolution of all programming.

Through the Free Software Movement applications could be reinvented. The intentions were to take any source code and then adapt it for an individual’s specific needs; allowing the code to therefore work for the user, rather than offering just a broad effect. A tailored effort, it was claimed, would provide greater results and possibilities – which could then be given to the Internet itself, promoting progress.

Such progress still exists today. Stallman’s ideas are still being used and are revered amongst users. Their controversy is not enough to dissuade.

It’s the dreaded flicker of a screen, the sudden fade to black – your computer is stalled, its applications useless, its programs gone. You try the typical solutions; you punch all the necessary commands; but those do not work and you feel yourself begin to panic. That panic grows when you finally turn the system off completely, only to be horrified when it won’t flash back on. Your machine – the most precious of your possessions, the great connector between your home and the online world – is dead. You can’t revive it. You can’t even force a glimmer. There is nothing left but a blank monitor and the realization that you are without hope.

This is an all too tragic (but also all too common) scenario, forced by an equally tragic (and equally common) mistake: free software.

While none can deny the appeal of programs that require no payment or purchase, none can also deny the necessity of trust that must be placed within them. These are not company products, manufactured to appeal to the masses; meant to be secure and without complication. These are instead applications that have been changed again and again, sent out onto the virtual playground for any to select. And this can be dangerous.
Source codes can be easy to manipulate – and easier to still to infect with viruses. Malware, spy-ware and more can be placed within any free program; and you would not know this until it was far too late.

This is why precautions must therefore be taken. Before choosing any free software, be certain of its reputation. Read reviews and forum posts to determine if it is credible. You must also look for information on its creator, making sure that the identity has not been marked as dangerous. And, even if your search reveals nothing, be sure still that all important information is placed on back-up files. This will lessen the burden later.

Free software is important. It must simply be approached with care.

A lot of questions and concerns that arise regarding Linux and open source software center around its ability to run the things that users are familiar with. This is very true for gaming as over 200 million people worldwide play games online. Gamers have nothing to fear though as programs abound for open source gaming. For example, the WINE project and Cedega support Windows games on Linux.

But consider the Linux Gamers project that operates as a live distribution. It is comprised of 34 diverse free, open source games which run natively in Linux and put the player anywhere from behind the wheel of a race car to a billiards table. And it comes in four versions: Big ISO, Lite ISO, Big USB and Lite USB. The Big ISO burns to a live DVD that can just be inserted into your drive and get you playing. The distribution works very well with premier video cards and will set up open source drivers featuring 3D acceleration for others. Best yet, it doesn’t require any installation or reconfiguring of files.

On top of the assortment of fun games is a great selection of included tools; but keep in mind they come with the DVD format. From the makers of Firefox is the web browser Gran Paradiso. The network configuration tool Wicd is available for any need to alter your network settings. A handy sound volume tool, AlsaMixer, comes included as well. However, the most useful tool is the XChat IRC client. With many multi-player games, this tool becomes essential to arrange bouts with friends and to engage in the customary trash talk.

Lastly, the Linux Gamers project has the semblance of the desktop of an operating system with icons placed on menu bars represent the library of games. The native gaming experience in Linux can surely rival anything you’ve played before.

Approaches to saving or backing up data differ from user to user–some relying on external hard drives to safeguard everything and some just saving a file once. The issue most users opposed to storing all of their data is the relatively tedious nature of the task. Sorting data, deciding what files need to be backed up and which you can risk losing , plus what technology to do it all with, used to take time and patience. As proprietary technology has made advances to run tasks easier and more efficient, the same holds true for open source. Below is one easy way to back up your data in Linux.

A fast and basic tool to use is Backerupper; don’t let the name fool you, it’s legit. This open source software can readily be found online, downloaded and uncompressed onto your hard drive. After running the install script, which takes no time at all, enter the command sudo ./install.sh into the directory and you’ll be ready to store some data.

Start the program by using the command “backer” in your terminal window. The menu will pop up and don’t worry, navigating is straightforward. Begin by creating a profile by choosing what directories you need backed up and where you would like to place the corresponding files. All of the data will be saved as a compressed file to where you directed it. You can also designate a back up time–when you want it to be backed up–as well as the number of copies you would like to have stored. Feel free to make multiple profiles for individual directories.

Another great asset is its easy retrieval system. By selecting a profile it will quickly locate the archive. You can then direct it to restore the files wherever you would like. It may not be the most advanced, but it’s certainly that easy.

Before you decide to participate in an open source community, first consider a few important details. Your first step should be to assess your abilities; decide which area you are strongest. There are many areas open for contributions besides just drafting code including: web and interface designers, translators, documentation writers, testers and technical support. Wisely allocate the time you would be willing to contribute and be certain that you are not barred from partaking due to any employer or rights restrictions.

Once you officially join, take the time to familiarize yourself with the ins and outs of the community, as well as the people. Each community tends to have its own custom way of doing things. Learn how everyone interacts and what kind of structure is involved–whether it is a hierarchy or open democracy. This will dictate how you are to participate. It’s important to get to know the other participants and their respective roles. Feel out how they constructively criticize each other and what mode of communication they use–be it chat, mailing lists, etc.

As you become active in the community, provide frequent notices on what you’re working on and state explicitly what tools and resources you are using to keep everyone informed and have a detailed record of the project’s development. Lastly, remember open source communities are based on support, so exercise reciprocation. You’ll find being a part is a rewarding learning experience.

Open source software projects are not developed by a paid staff like propriery companies, but by a dedicated community. These open source communities are essential to the creation and improvement of a program. Requiring more than just an open source license, these communities necessitate many things to get off the ground and be successful.

An open source community is a group of developers and users with a general goal of building or developing a project. How active members are differ in each community, with roles ranging from testing to support to writing code. Very active members may gain the privilege of exclusive access and control of the project. All participants, however, are encouraged to contribute to advance the software and/or solve any problems.

At the start, an open source community is comprised of a few developers, as it takes time–years even–to get a program running. In fact, many are managed by a “benevolent dictator”: one person in charge of development and input. So, it’s key to have something that can be tested and operated by users. It’s ideal to deliver elements early and often no matter the condition. With marketing of its advantages, the project will then attract interest from users and contributions from other skilled developers. They need to be supported with credit for their work and more responsibility to keep them involved.

Even when things are up and running, there will be difficulties. For one, with the increase of users there will be a strong demand for support. It can be a tedious process to address all technical issues, thus it is imperative to have people dedicated to this role. There is also the slight possibility of a member taking the code and creating a competing project. Finally, a structure or form of governance needs to be implemented for decision making so the community can live beyond the founders and lost members.

Open source projects, which create and develop things like open source software, generally receive their submissions from their members in the form of a software patch. It can have different purposes such as repairing a bug, implementing a brand new feature or contributing to the project’s documentation. Most patches are made by employing the output of the ‘diff’ tool offered from popular systems like Linux and Unix. The patch is then submitted to a project by a contributor and reviewed by one of the project leaders. Software patches are useful to developing a project and the community following it.

By accessing files in the project’s version control system that documents the history of changes to the source code, a contributor can enact changes to the project’s output. It’s imperative that the patch to be thoroughly tested, in accordance with the project’s requirements and contain details on its use and purpose. There are many tools available for the creation of a software patch. With any program, the result is an archive of files, which essentially is the patch, that is to be provided to the project. If the leader finds the patch to be acceptable, it will be committed to the public version control system–available for the community to see and scrutinize.

It’s highly important for the contributor to create and introduce their software patch towards the most current version of the project. This eliminates the risk of duplicating previous changes, as well as the time needed for the project leader to review and insert it, plus, increases the chances of its acceptance. This makes it equally important for projects to put out their new material as soon as possible. And for the material to properly develop, it will need these software patches from contributors, which will ultimately dictate the viability of the community and the project.

While open source operating systems and software hasn’t revolutionized computing as much as some users had believed, such as unseating Mac and Windows, it significantly has and will continue to leave an impact. Its combination with various other technologies has allowed users to do things never thought of before like making these technologies work for them how they see fit. And while it may be easy to overlook its advances, it is becoming harder and harder not to use them.

A digital world where users have begun to expect free access to their desired applications is assuredly making obsolete the idea of paying for an operating system, plus the burden of licensing fees. This idea is epitomized by the business model of Microsoft. In retrospect, does it make much sense to pay for an operating system just to be able to get online and use certain software? Open source software on the other hand is free and very elastic. It can generally be used on any platform emphasizing the freedom of online applications changing users expectations.

The advantage of open source software’s flexibility is also reaching into the hardware of computing. As the demand for smart phones and tablets continue to skyrocket, the design of smaller, faster chips that use dramatically less power has flourished. These same chips are increasingly making their way inside of laptops and desktops because of their burgeoning efficiency. Some software, however, won’t run on high-performance chips like ARM. It then becomes necessary for manufacturers of these smaller computing devices to have an operating system that can operate with their components. This is what open source can do.

But to find the greatest example of open source’s impact on computing one not need go far. In fact, people researching open source software are most likely using it right now: Google. With its search engine running on Linux, as well as its Android operating system, Google has been an open source company from the very beginning. Not only does it fit its image of freedom, it accommodates their drive of opening up new frontiers. People can definitely say they use open source everyday.

Linux

Linux fans are surely familiar with the technical advantages of the Linux desktop over the mainstream proprietary systems. But if you look beyond its sheer efficiency you will find it supports a great deal of open source applications that offer interaction, fun and entertainment just like well known proprietary programs. Following are five stimulating apps that can really measure up to the usual proprietary suspects.

Ekiga
Besides email and social media apps, one of the most popular forms of interacting online is the video conferencing program Skype. While Skype’s popularity is hard to match, the Linux friendly version Ekiga is comparable in ability. Encompassing SIP calling, LAN chatting choices and the previously mentioned video conferencing, it is arguably the top open source program of its kind.

GIMP
For the design professionals and creative types, the photo editor of choice has been the proprietary application Photoshop. Understandably, it can be difficult to make a change from a program you’re comfortable with. GIMP, however, is worth a shot. Already known among most Linux users, GIMP is easy to use and very similar to Photoshop in its ability to create and manipulate images.

Scribus
Although it might take a little learning, Scribus is a desktop publishing application that has advantages over its proprietary kin like Pagemaker and InDesign. Files made in Scribus use open standards and work created in it can easily be imported and exported across different platforms. And why not put together newsletters and other publications for free?

OpenShot
Video editing software has now become a standard app for a lot of proprietary operating systems, and its no different with Linux. In fact, there are a lot of Linux video editors out there, but many are inefficient. OpenShot on the other hand is easy to use and comes with more advanced editing capabilities from audio and video effects to video transitions and clippings. A novice or expert will find a happy medium.

VLC Media Player
But if you would rather watch a video rather make one, VLC Media Player would be an excellent choice. This video viewing app can smoothly play just about any video format and stream video, as well as re-encode video.

When the code of a piece of open source software is free and obtainable for the public, it can be assured that it will be analyzed by many people all over the world. And included is this group are experienced programmers. While extensively reviewing the code, these experts are able to locate any potential faults or cracks. In turn, the same people are able to access the code and directly correct any issues, making the software that much stronger.

Meanwhile, propriety software like the major brand names is closed. It cannot be accessed by anyone outside of the company. This leaves users unsure exactly how efficient the security measures of these programs are. In addition, it leaves them in the dark while hackers could eventually crack the code and hold an advantage over others.

Plus, when a problem or bug is found it can be quickly resolved in open source software as users can promptly tackle the issue immediately. On the other hand, proprietary software has to be handled through the channels of the owning company and may not be resolved until a future edition of the program in question. With a socially and professionally supportive online community of programmers and users of open source software, the peer review process is comparable–and can argued, better–than that of major proprietary IT teams.

Buzzbird
To get the most out of your Twitter account, you may consider Buzzbird. Supporting the usual tweeting features without using another Web browser, it also can cull together conversations between users and boasts its very own URL shortening.

Celtx
Celtx screenplay word processor does more than just get your future film on a page. It includes tools to construct a storyboard, manage filming schedules, as well as collaborate online.

KompoZer
As a website editor KompoZer stands out for a couple of unique reasons. For one, it is very supportive of CSS unlike other applications. And it rocks a FTP tool for uploading pages right on to your server.

Kylo
Sure Kylo is a Web browser, but what makes it so cool is that it’s built for your TV! The entire interface–from menus to fonts–was developed to be seen on the on the big screen, at least as compared to your monitor.

Miro
The Miro media player is geared towards HD video and supports all kinds of file formats. It also operates as a sharing device for your own homemade content.

Songbird
For those looking for a substitute of iTunes will find the Songbird media player appropriate. It has the look and many of the same features.

Spicebird
Combining the convenience of a calendar and instant messaging, Spicebird is an email application that also uses various widgets to work as a digital planner and communication system.

Telekast
If you have been looking for a way to make your computer video presentations easier, Telekast acts as your very own teleprompter.

XULPlayer
Another beneficial media player is XULPlayer. Coming with a customizable interface, it converts video files to other formats and to play on other devices.

Because all businesses have different needs–needs that also differ between divisions and individual employees–the ability to customize is a substantial asset to the workplace. Open source software can conform to the user rather force the user to conform to the program. This way the program can be manipulated to better accomplish the specific goals of the company. In addition, this can limit potential technical problems and increase needed functionality.

In relation, open source can be utilized on different platforms. This allows a business to maintain a sense of Independence. It will no longer be required to purchase only certain computer models and force each employee to uniformly use only that kind of device–be it PC, Mac, etc. In turn, this can save your business money.

And there is no better way to save money than by outfitting your business for free. Buying software can be expensive, and based on the number of employees, it can be extremely expensive. This will only rise as your company expands, which can then limit growth as it affects operation costs. Opens source is free, meaning significant savings that can trickle down to customers or support new infrastructure.

As an example, take the email client. It is something every business uses and every employee uses, which also means they may have a comfortable relationship with the current system. Thus, it is imperative to find a solution that can match their preferences. Luckily, there are many different open source email clients with different features to match your staff’s personal needs. And with an open source email client you eliminate the need of per user license agreements to save money and employees will be allowed to access their accounts at any work station to increase efficiency.