by Daniel Hill

Created on: August 04, 2008

If you mention open-source or freeware, you'll probably get far more "what's that?" reactions than any rounds of applause. But whether the many computer users out there realize what it is or not, many of them are using it right now. It's a software philosophy that's quickly spreading into the mainstream with a future that's looking bright.

Open-source means free software that is publicly shared; every bit of code that makes up the program is freely available for anyone to view and contribute to. What this means for the general public is that they can download and use this software free of charge, no strings attached. For us non-programmers, such projects not only welcome user-feedback, but welcome it with open arms. Even just by using it, we're supporting this type of free software. This model of development is not commercially driven. These are people making this software because they want to, giving their spare time to the community of users. The best-known example out there today is the popular web browser Mozilla Firefox. Although the Windows-embedded Internet Explorer still dominates, Firefox has taken a big bite out of its market share and continues to grow with each new release.

We're in a time where consumers are constantly being overcharged for everything, and then being nickled and dimed for various "extras" on top of it. This is a non-issue in open-source software since everything is free. It also means not being forced into shelling out more dough every time a new version comes out. Rather than turn to piracy as some do, people like myself are looking to free software as a safer and more reliable solution. It's very convenient to be at a friends house or at work, and know that should you need that particular program, you can easily just visit the website and download it hassle-free. The goal is to have usable, functional software. No more, no less.

For some, the only barrier to switching may simply be the monopoly of known brands. Because of those brands' popularity, they think that it would be impossible for the alternatives to stand up to it. Then there are others who aren't even aware that there are alternatives available, let alone ones with the same level of functionality. The choice to use open-source is often a philosophical one-choosing that route because of their personal belief that free software is viable and should be supported. There are always those who simply love supporting the alternative for their own reasons. For those who don't

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