What does 'open-source software' mean?

Open-source software refers to programs where the source code is made available to the public. This means that anyone can inspect how the software works, modify it to suit their needs, and enhance it by contributing improvements back to the community. This openness promotes collaboration and transparency, enabling developers to work together to improve the software continually.

In contrast, other options provide inaccurate descriptions of open-source software. Software that is free to download and use does not necessarily mean the source code is accessible or modifiable; some free software can be proprietary. Similarly, open-source software does not involve subscription fees for updates, as it is generally maintained by community contributions rather than corporate structures. Lastly, open-source software is not exclusively for corporate use; it is designed to be accessible to anyone, including individuals and organizations of all sizes.