I'm thinking about switching to Linux and I keep coming across discussions about open source versus proprietary systems. From what I understand, open source software allows multiple developers to collaborate and is available online, while proprietary systems are usually maintained by specific companies or groups. Am I on the right track? I'm eager to learn more and have some conversations about this before I invest in any programs that might not be worth it.
2 Answers
You actually have it right! Open source software is usually free and developed by a community, making it hard to waste money on it. For example, many great Linux distributions are open source, and they come with tons of support from users online. Proprietary systems, like Windows or macOS, can definitely cost more, but they often have dedicated support teams behind them.
Honestly, this question feels a bit outdated. In 2025, you've mainly got Windows, Mac, and Linux as the main players. Plus, a lot of features from Windows and MacOS have become open source over time. Don’t get too caught up on the labels; focus on what you need in an OS.
I get what you're saying! I'm just trying to gather information casually, not looking for a big debate. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!