Open-source software is software that is released with a license that allows users to view, modify, and distribute the source code. This model has allowed for the rapid development of many popular programs, including the Linux operating system, the Apache web server, and the Firefox web browser. The open-source community thrives on collaboration, with developers from all over the world contributing to projects and improving code.
Open-source software has played a pivotal role in driving innovation in technology, providing free and customizable alternatives to proprietary software. Major companies like Microsoft, Google, and Facebook have even adopted open-source principles, contributing to and benefiting from the vast open-source ecosystem.