With reference to open-source software, which of the following statements are…
2024
With reference to open-source software, which of the following statements are correct?
A. It is software distributed with its source code.
B. It allows users to modify the software to best fit their needs.
C. It is software that anyone can use on a trial basis before paying for it.
D. Linux is an example of open-source software.
Answer: A. A, B and D only — ConceptOpen-source software is released under a licence that makes its source code available and grants users rights to inspect, use, modify, and redistribute…
- A.
A, B and D only
- B.
A, B, C and D only
- C.
A, C and D only
- D.
B and C only
Attempted by 32 students.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Concept
Open-source software is released under a licence that makes its source code available and grants users rights to inspect, use, modify, and redistribute it.
This is different from trialware, whose defining feature is temporary use before payment.
Application
Apply that distinction to each statement:
Distribution with source code describes a core feature of open-source software.
Permission to modify the program for users’ needs is a standard open-source freedom, subject to the licence terms.
Trial use before payment describes trialware or shareware; it does not define open-source software.
Linux is a well-known example of open-source software.
Contrast and cross-check
Source-code availability and licensing freedoms distinguish open source from a time-limited commercial trial. Statement C therefore describes a different software-distribution model.
Hence, the applicable statements are A, B, and D only.