Open source refers to a development and distribution model for software and other projects that allows access to the source code, enabling anyone to view, modify, and distribute the software. In an open-source environment, the source code of a software application or project is made available to the public, usually under a license that grants users the right to study, modify, and distribute the software freely.
Open-source software provides access to its source code, allowing users to view, modify, or enhance the codebase based on their requirements or preferences.
Open-source licenses, such as the GNU General Public License (GPL), MIT License, Apache License, or others, govern the terms under which the software is distributed. These licenses outline the rights and restrictions for users, including permissions for modification, distribution, and use.
Some well-known examples of open-source software include the Linux operating system, the Apache HTTP Server, the Mozilla Firefox web browser, the LibreOffice productivity suite, and the WordPress content management system (CMS), among many others.