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ARTICLE · 26 JANUARY 2006

Open Source: Answers To 10 Common Questions (IP)

Goodwin Procter LLP
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In recent years, there has been a tremendous buzz about open source software. Many constituencies believe that it is the ultimate destiny of the software industry, while others remain unconvinced that open source represents a viable business model.

United StatesIntellectual Property
Joel E. Lehrer
Joel E. Lehrer
Ira Heffan
Ira Heffan

In recent years, there has been a tremendous buzz about open source software. Many constituencies believe that it is the ultimate destiny of the software industry, while others remain unconvinced that open source represents a viable business model. There is no doubt, however, that open source software is changing the software industry and is here to stay – in some form. Here we answer some frequently asked questions about open source software and address some common misconceptions.

1. What is open source software?

The term "open source software" historically referred to software developed by volunteer programmers lacking any common affiliation other than an interest in developing a solution to a particular problem. The results of these "projects" were freely distributed in source code form1, with support provided via e-mail, bulletin boards and chat rooms. What started as a niche among software developers, however, has grown to the point where large corporations and government

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