When open source software is released, the code running it is made available for public review. It's sort of like going to a writer's workshop where everyone gets to look at your work, criticize it, and hopefully, improve it. Both the source code and compiled applications remain absolutely free to use or peruse.

The object of open source is to collectively enhance the software, make it run smoother and act better. It is an especially good method for detecting vulnerabilities that could lead to security breeches.

Programmers love open source programs because they can see how the code works, and what they really do. There can be no hidden operations or covert procedures when software is open sourced. This feature will increasingly appeal to consumers who are demanding their privacy be respected in an interconnected world.

"The basic idea behind open source is very simple. When programmers on the Internet can read, redistribute, and modify the source for a piece of software, it evolves. People improve it, people adapt it, people fix bugs. And this can happen at a speed that, if one is used to the slow pace of conventional software development, seems astonishing."