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IGCSEICTEdexcelRevision Notes1. Digital DevicesSoftwareSoftware Licenses

Software Licenses (Edexcel IGCSE ICT)

Revision Note

Robert Hampton

Written by: Robert Hampton

Reviewed by: James Woodhouse

Free/open source & proprietary software

What is a software licence?

  • A software licence is a legal agreement that lays out rules for how software can and can't be used

  • There are two main types of software licence, each with very different rules on usage, distribution and support, they are:

    • Free or open source

    • Proprietary

Features of open source & proprietary software

Software Licence

Features

Free

  • Free to modify, study, copy or distribute

Open source

  • Access to source code to edit/change

  • Able to edit and distribute

Proprietary 

  • Costs money

  • Produced by 'professional' companies

  • More regular official updates/support/upgrades/fixes

Examiner Tips and Tricks

In regard to free software, the term 'free' means free from restrictions and NOT the cost of the software

Advantages & disadvantages of open source & proprietary software

Software Licence

Advantages

Disadvantages

Free or open source

  • Allows collaboration with other people who may want the same modifications

  • Less buggy versions of the software may appear faster

  • Usually free, good for companies with limited budgets

  • Generally strong social support

  • Relies on support of other users

  • To edit the code, you need expert knowledge

  • May not receive regular updates

  • Could be more open to exploitation through users adding malicious code

Proprietary 

  • Generally free customer support

  • Created to professional standards

  • Always someone to go back to with any problems

  • Cost can be significant

  • Limited expansion, only what is available

  • Relies on one company

  • May not fully meet the need of the user/customer

Worked Example

State what is meant by the term ‘open source software’.

[2]

Answer

  • It is available to users [1] to modify /distribute / viewed [1]

‘Free’ (in relation to cost) is not accepted

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    Author
    Reviewer
    Robert Hampton

    Author: Robert Hampton

    Expertise: Computer Science Content Creator

    Rob has over 16 years' experience teaching Computer Science and ICT at KS3 & GCSE levels. Rob has demonstrated strong leadership as Head of Department since 2012 and previously supported teacher development as a Specialist Leader of Education, empowering departments to excel in Computer Science. Beyond his tech expertise, Robert embraces the virtual world as an avid gamer, conquering digital battlefields when he's not coding.

    James Woodhouse

    Author: James Woodhouse

    Expertise: Computer Science

    James graduated from the University of Sunderland with a degree in ICT and Computing education. He has over 14 years of experience both teaching and leading in Computer Science, specialising in teaching GCSE and A-level. James has held various leadership roles, including Head of Computer Science and coordinator positions for Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4. James has a keen interest in networking security and technologies aimed at preventing security breaches.