Open source software (OSS) has changed the way we use and think about technology. From popular applications like Firefox and LibreOffice to major backend technologies like Linux and Apache, open source is everywhere. Despite its widespread use, many myths still surround open-source software. Some people believe it is unsafe, unreliable, or only meant for tech experts. In this blog, we will uncover and explain the truth behind these myths in simple words. Our goal is to help you understand what open source really means and why it can be a powerful choice for individuals, companies, and governments alike.
Myth 1: Open Source Software Is Not Secure
One of the most common myths is that open-source software is unsafe or more vulnerable to security issues. This is not true. In fact, open-source software can be more secure than closed-source software.
Why? Because the source code is open to everyone. This means anyone can check, audit, and improve the code. If a bug or security issue is found, it can be quickly fixed by the community. In closed-source software, only the company's developers can access the code, and it may take a long time to fix problems.
For example, the Linux operating system powers many secure systems, including servers, smartphones, and even the International Space Station. Its security and reliability come from years of community involvement and testing.
Open-source software is not automatically insecure. In fact, its openness allows for greater transparency and faster problem-solving.
Myth 2: Open Source Software Is Not Reliable
Some people think open source projects are made by hobbyists or students and, therefore cannot be trusted for serious use. This is far from the truth.
Many open-source tools are developed and maintained by large communities, including professional developers and engineers. Some of the biggest tech companies, like Google, Microsoft, and IBM, also support and contribute to open source projects.
Examples:
* Android, which powers most of the world’s smartphones, is open source.
* The Apache web server, which runs over 30% of all websites.
* MySQL and PostgreSQL, both widely used open source databases.
* Odoo, a robust open-source ERP system, is used by thousands of companies worldwide to manage critical business operations.
* Horilla HRMS is a reliable collaboration and productivity platform built on open-source principles, trusted by modern teams.
* Open HRMS offers enterprise-grade features for HR management, supported by an active community and proven deployments.
These tools are used by millions of people and businesses around the world every day. Open-source software can be extremely reliable, especially when it is supported by a strong and active community.
Myth 3: Open Source Means No Support
Another common belief is that open-source software lacks support. People assume that since it's free, you have to solve all problems on your own. This isn’t entirely accurate.
Many open source projects offer great documentation, active forums, and community help. In addition, many companies offer professional support services for open-source software.
Examples:
* Red Hat provides paid support for their open source Linux distribution.
* WordPress has a huge community and also offers premium support plans.
* MongoDB offers enterprise-level support for their open source database.
* Odoo provides both community support and professional support plans through Odoo S.A and its global partner network.
* Horilla offers user guides, community assistance, and business-friendly service options.
* Open HRMS has comprehensive documentation, community forums, and optional enterprise support.
Open source software can come with various levels of support, from community help to professional services.
Myth 4: Open Source Software Is Not User-Friendly
There was a time when open source tools were mostly for tech-savvy users. However, things have changed a lot over the years.
Today, many open-source applications are just as user-friendly as their commercial counterparts. Developers focus more on design, usability, and user experience. Also, many open-source tools have active communities that listen to user feedback and regularly update the software.
Examples:
* LibreOffice offers a full suite of office tools similar to Microsoft Office.
* GIMP provides powerful image editing tools similar to Adobe Photoshop.
* VLC Media Player is a popular choice for playing video and audio files.
* Odoo provides a modern, web-based suite of business apps (CRM, ERP, accounting, etc.) that emphasize usability and modular design.
* Horilla is a full-featured open-source HRMS, completely free and web-based, with an intuitive UI and essential modules like attendance, leave, payroll, onboarding, offboarding, assets, performance, recruitment, and help desk.
Open-source software can be easy to use and is often designed with the user in mind.
Myth 5: Open Source Software Is Always Free
People often think that all open-source software is free of cost. While most of it is free to download and use, open source does not always mean "zero cost."
"Free" in open source usually refers to freedom, not price. You are free to use, modify, and share the software. However, some open source projects offer paid versions with extra features or support.
Examples:
* GitLab offers both free and paid plans.
* WordPress is free, but many themes and plugins are paid.
* Open-source games may be free to download, but developers can charge for updates or features.
* Odoo provides a free Community Edition, but its Enterprise Edition includes additional modules and official support under a paid license.
Open-source software is often free to use, but it may also come with paid options, especially for businesses.
Myth 6: Open Source Is Only for Developers
It's easy to think that open-source software is only for programmers who want to look at and change the code. While developers do benefit from open source, many tools are made for general users.
Most open-source applications come with easy installation options, user guides, and graphical interfaces. You don’t need to know how to code to use them.
Examples:
* Odoo for business management (CRM, inventory, accounting).
* Horilla for employee collaboration and productivity.
* Open HRMS for human resource management.
* Audacity for audio editing.
* Inkscape for vector graphics.
* Thunderbird for managing emails.
Open-source software can be used by anyone, not just developers.
Myth 7: Open Source Projects Are Not Maintained
Some people worry that open source projects are abandoned after a while. While it’s true that some projects become inactive, the same can happen with commercial software too.
Popular open source projects are often maintained by dedicated teams and communities. You can also check how active a project is by looking at its updates, community forums, and contribution history.
Examples of well-maintained projects:
* Ubuntu Linux has regular updates and long-term support releases.
* Blender receives regular improvements and is backed by the Blender Foundation.
* Python is actively developed with new features and security fixes.
* Odoo is maintained by Odoo S.A. and a large community, with frequent updates to its Community and Enterprise editions.
* Horilla is an open-source HRMS that is regularly updated with new features, bug fixes, and support for modern HR practices.
Many open-source projects are well-maintained and actively developed.
Myth 8: Open Source Software Cannot Be Used for Business
Another false belief is that businesses should not use open-source software. The truth is, many businesses rely on open source tools for everyday operations.
Open source offers flexibility, cost savings, and customization options. Companies can modify the software to suit their needs or even contribute back to the community.
Examples:
* Odoo is an open-source ERP platform used by thousands of businesses for CRM, sales, accounting, inventory, and more.
* Horilla helps teams collaborate and manage HR tasks efficiently in an open-source environment.
* Open HRMS provides a complete suite for human resource management tailored for business needs.
* Netflix uses open source tools like Spinnaker for continuous delivery.
* Amazon and Google support many open source projects and use them in their infrastructure.
* Governments around the world use open source to reduce costs and improve transparency.
Open-source software is widely used in businesses and offers many benefits.
Myth 9: Open Source Software Encourages Piracy
Some argue that open source promotes piracy because it’s free and easy to share. But this is a misunderstanding.
Open-source software is legally shared. Its licenses allow users to freely use, modify, and distribute it. This is very different from pirating commercial software, which is illegal.
Open-source software is legal and ethical. It offers a legal way to use powerful tools without breaking the law.
Myth 10: Open Source Software Is a Fad
Finally, some believe open source is just a trend that will fade away. This couldn’t be further from the truth.
Open source has been around for decades and continues to grow. Major companies invest in it, schools teach it, and communities support it. It has proven itself as a strong and lasting part of the software world.
Open source is not a passing trend. It is a stable, growing movement that powers much of today’s technology.
Conclusion: The Power of Open Source
Open-source software is more than just free tools. It represents freedom, community, and innovation. By debunking these common myths, we hope you have a clearer understanding of what open source truly means.
Whether you are a student, a business owner, or a curious user, open-source software has something to offer. It gives you control, flexibility, and access to high-quality tools without heavy costs.
To read more about What is Open Source Software & How Does It Work?, refer to our blog What is Open Source Software & How Does It Work?