Is Proprietary Software More Secure than Open Source?

Collaboration plays a large role in today’s digital age. Whether an emerging small business relies on crowdsourcing for funding or a brand utilizes their fans for video content, we’re able to connect with each other in a whole new way. 

The Internet has allowed people from all over the globe to connect and create better products. Online communities have even banded together to create software that is devised, improved and shared freely. 

Companies the world over use this free, crowd-created software, known as “open source;” however, since a whole community of contributors manages it, some people have questions about its security. On the other hand, proprietary software (which you have to pay for) also has its challenges.

We’ve weighed the pros and cons of open source vs. propriety software to help you determine which one may be the best fit for your business: 

Open Source Software
Pros: 

• Basic software packages with numerous plugins allow for great customization.
• Constant software updates from the community enable you to keep your site up to date and fix any potential bugs. 
• There are many reputable communities, as well as increased security – since multiple people tested the software.
• You can always find a developer/employee who’s able to work on the software.

Cons: 

• Due to the community aspect of the software, businesses are not always a priority. Your business may need updates that aren’t as important or a first priority for those working on the software.
• If the community decides to move away from your open-source software, you could be left without support or future updates.