ITPEC IP April 2023 Question 22

Topic: Software

Among the descriptions A through C concerning OSS (Open Source Software), which of the following is the list that contains all appropriate descriptions?

A:Some software is distributed only in compiled binary format, not in source code format.B:The license can restrict the field of use or users (individuals or groups).C:The Linux OS and the PostgreSQL relational database management system are some examples.

Explanation

C only — Linux and PostgreSQL are open source software, while A and B contradict the Open Source Definition.

The Open Source Definition of the OSI (Open Source Initiative) sets the conditions an OSS licence must meet:

  • •A — inappropriate: the program must include its source code, or the source must be freely obtainable. Software distributed only as compiled binaries is not OSS, even when it is free of charge (freeware).
  • •B — inappropriate: the licence must not discriminate against any person or group, nor restrict use in any field of endeavour, such as forbidding commercial or research use.
  • •C — appropriate: the Linux OS and the PostgreSQL RDBMS are well-known OSS.

Answer (d)

Why not others:

  • •(a) A — binary-only distribution is not open source, and C is missing
  • •(b) A, B — both descriptions break the Open Source Definition, and C is missing
  • •(c) B, C — C is right, but a licence that restricts users or fields of use is not an OSS licence

Key rule: OSS means the source is available, redistribution and modification are allowed, and no user or field of use is excluded; a licence may still attach conditions, such as the GPL's requirement to publish derived source.

Software · AI-written, may contain errors

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