M03 Part 2: Textbook Assignment – Open Source Programs

Shaker Mohammadtom
04/07/2021
For my research, I chose Apache, SecureDrop, and Tor Browser. These are all open

source software packages. I was unable to find commercial versions of any of them.

Apache has no commercial version and is committed to maintaining their software as

free and open source. They are adamant that companies do not mislead consumers into

thinking that they must pay anything for the software usage or installation. They make software

for web servers, cloud services, big data, data management, and database. These all fall under

the same open source blanket with varying levels of support usages. Apache is listed on the

official licensing website. They also specify that their logo is the only thing that cannot be

altered or used for profit or advertising.

SecureDrop is an open source software that is used by over 50 news organizations

worldwide. The software is installed within the new organizations system, and they use it to

anonymously communicate with confidential sources and whistleblowers. According to the

website, there are no third parties, no metadata collection, encryption, and protection from

hackers. The company accepts donations to enable them to develop and improve their product.

They also release an installation guide and provide a team that helps to install the software if

needed. There is only one version, and it is open source. The support provided is presumably

paid for by the donors and contributors. I could not find any distinction in available features,

but the website did note that the installation was difficult and complex. Hence, they provide

the support team to aid.

Tor is a free and open source browser that allows users to freely explore and browse the

Internet anonymously. This software helps users to avoid tracking, surveillance, and censorship.

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This software allows users to browse what is known as the “dark web”. The software

automatically deletes cookies and your browsing history when you exit the session. All

information is encrypted three times and is relayed by volunteer-run servers known as Tor relays.

There is no commercial version, so there is no difference in available features. This company

also accepts donations and has employees (presumably paid for my donations). They are

designated as a 501(c)3. They are also committed to open source without charging anyone for the

software usage. Again, I could not find a commercial version that has any different features that

are not available on the free version.

This study source was downloaded by 100000779193685 from CourseHero.com on 04-07-2021 09:47:33 GMT -05:00