Open-source and proprietary are two types of software licenses. Open-source software is often free to download and use. Users of open-source software are allowed direct access to the softwares source code. This gives them the ability to see exactly how the software works and make any customizations they may want to, for the software to better suit their needs.

Proprietary software on the other hand is software that users must purchase a license to use, and even after purchasing that license, they do not get access to the source code. Unlike opensource software the user is not supposed to alter the software in anyway. Nor are they allowed to redistribute it for any reason. The purchase does not mean they own the software, rather they have rented access to it for a period of time. Since open-source software is free to use and develop there are often larger communities using it. This means they are usually updated more frequently, with added features, tools, and improved security. IT is almost guaranteed for every proprietary software on the market there is an open-source alternative.

The two software I choose to cover in my discussion post are Inkscape and its proprietary alternative Adobe Illustrator. Both softwares are meant for the design and editing of vector images. Inkscape is open source and 100% free to use. Adobe illustrator on the other hand is proprietary, requiring a monthly subscription that is considered pricey to the average users. This is one of the main reasons Inkscape is often the tool of choice. In its standard form it comes with a set of tools and capabilities that are equivalent to those of adobe illustrator. Though the features and tools that it may be missing can be added using one of the many extensions. Inkscape also has communities and chat boards for users to ask or find questions that have already been asked to solve any potential problems. Inkscape is very well maintained, which helps with its security and functionality being top notch.

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