Just as the title says, I want to know the difference between Open source and "Source available" software. Literally, both the terms mean the same thing, i.e software whose source code is publicly available. But then, how can Source available software be proprietary (closed source)? Also, what are the licenses used for Source available software? Thanks in advance for your reply.
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1Have you read (and followed the links on) this site's on topic page? "Open source" is much more specific than "you can see the source". And given what is on-topic here, "what are the licenses used for Source available software" is off-topic here.– Philip KendallCommented 9 hours ago
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1 Answer
The open source definition is not just about being allowed to read the sourcecode of an application. It is mostly concerned with the right to change and redistribute the software.
With a software that is only "source available", you might be able to look at the sourcecode. But you might not be allowed to:
- Change the sourcecode and recompile it, in some cases not even for your personal use.
- Redistribute the sourcecode or the compiled application to other people, with or without changes, under the same license conditions under which you received it.
- Use the program for any purpose (Non open-source software often has long End-User License Agreements which prohibit certain ways of using the software).
- Do any of the above things for money.
- Do any of the above things for free.
