Type of Software

Types of Software

There is many different types of software that are each useful in different situations.

Open source

Open Source software is avliable to the public and can be changed by the public. It is allways free to individuals.

Advantages - The public can be quicker to fix bugs and identify exploits in the code. They may also add desired features/additions to the code, for free.

Disadvantages - Due to everybpody being able to see the code hackers will be able to find exploits in the code and, exploit them.

Example - VLC media player and Linux are both examples of Open Source software.

Off the Shelf

Off the shelf software is software that is sold for a wide audience, it is usually made once and sold to the public.

Advantages - Its cheap as it caters to a wide audience, and it only needs to be made once.

Disadvantages - It may have features that you will not use and it will not be a perfect fit for your needs.

Example - An example of off the shelf software is Photoshop.

Custom/Bespoke

Bespoke software is made for an organization and is usually has very specific features.

Advantages - As you choose what is in it it is very flexible. It can be anything you want it to be.  

Disadvantages - It is usually very expensive as it is created just for you, it also take time to be made.

Example - An example of custom software is point of service software used in shops.

Proprietary

Proprietary software is software the is completely owned by the people who own it. You can not see the source code or edit it.

Advantages - No one apart from the creators can control it. This means any potential exploits can not be seen by hackers.

Disadvantages - Proprietary software looses all the benefits of open source software.

Example - An example of proprietary software is IOS.