software
software
In case you are unfamiliar with the term Open Source, it means that the source code of the software is open and not hidden or protected. Individuals are free to edit the code, modify it and use it for whatever reason they choose. However, they must not use the program for direct financial gain i.e. by selling it.
There are two primary benefits associated with open source to the average consumer:
Firstly, as the code is open, coders from all around the world are working to continuously improve and advance the program. These results in a far lower number of bugs and software errors that has resulting security benefits and system stability. If I a bug is found, it is quickly and easily patched and users can continue to use to software securely. This is contrasted from large companies with complex bureaucracies that may take a long time to issue an update patch, giving malicious individuals time to perform their dirty work. This is one of the reasons there are no viruses for the Linux operating system.
Oh, and forget about Adware and Spyware, they don’t exist in Open Source software!
The second reason, although less importantly, is that as individuals are barred from profiting by the sale of any Open Source Software, the software is always provided free of charge. This is fantastic, especially in the world of excessively high software prices.
See table for very approximate comparison of prices
|
Closed Source |
Open Source equivalent |
Photoshop CS2 |
AUD $1000 |
FREE (The GIMP) |
Microsoft Office |
AUD $400 |
FREE (Open Office) |
Windows Vista |
AUD $400 |
FREE (Ubuntu) |
Starry Night |
US $ 249 |
FREE (Celestia) |
I am not trying to sell you this software, as it’s totally free (as in Free Beer and as in free source code) my sole goal is to share the information I have gathered over time as to my favorite Open Source applications, so you too can give them a try.
My favorite Open Source Applications
Mozilla Firefox
If you haven’t heard of this Open Source web browser then you either have been living under a rock or aren’t that familiar with computers. This program tops the list of many peoples favorite Open Source programs, and is often an individuals first step into the world of open source software.
Cost: Free
Democracy Player
A relatively new player in the media scene, this open source video player plays almost all types of video format and even include bitTorrent to quickly download your latest content.
Cost: Free
Mozilla Thunderbird
My favorite email client that replaces Outlook or Eudora mail clients. Fully customizable and skin-able, this is one slick piece of software that everyone should have.
Cost: Free
Azureus
If you are into Bit Torrent file sharing, Azureus is a very comprehensive application that can be as complex or as simple as you require. All you need for bitTorrent downloading.
Cost: Free
http://azureus.sourceforge.net/
Open Office
The Open Source alternative to Microsoft Office. I am yet to come across any function that software suite is missing that Microsoft Office has. Not only is this a big saving in cost to yourself or your company, there are extra functions that are not available on Microsoft Office such as PDF support and open standards support.
Cost: Free
The GIMP
If you are into Photoshop but cant afford the $1000 licensing cost, then give the GIMP a shot. I am not too familiar with Photoshop, but have been told from many reliable sources that this program has almost everything Photoshop has, and defiantly has everything an advanced amateur would need to edit their digital photographs.
Cost: Free
Filezilla
This is an easy description: Filezilla is a simple, free, secure open source FTP client that does everything you want.
Cost: Free
http://filezilla.sourceforge.net/
AMSN
If you are sick of those MSN advertisements, want more customization, plugin and skin support then give aMSN a try.
Cost: Free
http://sourceforge.net/project/showfiles.php?group_id=54091
Celestia
If you have read my Astronomy section you will probably want to get your hands on some astronomy software. Celestia, although not particularly helpful for star gazing (use Stellarium for that) allows you to travel through the Universe, visit planets and tour the galaxy in first person view. A fantastic program that will defenatly make you feel insignificant down here on earth.
Cost: Free
http://sourceforge.net/projects/celestia/
Stellarium
A great looking very functional astronomy package that shows all the heavenly bodies in real time, just as you would from your location. There are too many features to name here, all I can say is that if you are interested in astronomy, get this program.
Cost: Free
When I find some more applications, I will be sure to share them with you!