What is open source?
Computers and all digital devices operate via sets of instructions that are written in various programming languages and compiled or interpreted for execution. This is called "source code." It is part of the codebase, along with configuration files and documentation, required to build an application or system. Open source refers to software for which the codebase is publicly available, generally at no cost and with few limitations on how it may be used.
Open source contrasts with the more widely recognized closed source, proprietary software for which the codebase is not available and is often considered a trade secret. In most cases, when you buy software, you do not get the source code — and accessing it is a violation of license agreements, if not actual laws.
There are hundreds of millions of open source projects, many of which produce powerful, robust, and well-developed software. Much of the work on open source software is done by volunteers who like the idea behind the application and/or use it for their own purposes. Some of the projects are run by enterprises that offer add-ons or value-added services to the software.
Open source projects often build on other, more rudimentary open source software, which are referred to as dependencies. A key task for those who use open source is to keep dependencies up to date — to patch the software, to improve functionality, performance, security, and other aspects of the codebase. Another, related task is to ensure that use of the software, especially any customization or separate versions (called forks), complies with the software license. There are several types of open licenses; without one the software is covered by copyright laws, even though the codebase is publicly available, and is not considered open source.
Possibly the most widely recognized and used open source software is the Linux operating system. Most of the systems that host online software run on Linux, which started as an effort to replicate the older, proprietary Unix operating system using the same commands and functions without forking it. It is generally considered more flexible and secure than Microsoft Windows. There are other similar operating systems. Apple's macOS is an official fork of Unix; Google's Android operating system is a fork of Linux.
Open source is closely related to open data and open standards, which have similar issues. Specifically, some hardware that runs open source software is built on proprietary technology using open standards. It is also dependent on software being free, as in speech rather than necessarily being cost-free. (For more about "software libré," see the Free Software Foundation's definition.)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chattanooga.Digital?
Chattanooga.Digital is a non-profit cooperative corporation that deploys, maintains, and provides basic support for open source software and other digital assets that are owned by our members.
What are digital assets?
Digital assets are any code or data that an individual, group, or organization owns and uses for their purposes. Generally, using code generates data. That code may be owned by someone else — like Amazon, Google, Meta, or Microsoft — in which cases you cannot modify the code and may not actually own the data. Chattanooga.Digital's role is basically to enable members to fully control, secure, share, and use their digital assets.
Is open source AI?
No. There are many open source AI models and tools, and many open source projects are incorporating AI, but much open source software has nothing to do with AI.
Is open source secure?
Yes — but security is a matter of practices as well as structure. Because open source is open, mature projects have been thoroughly reviewed by security proponents, which is not necessarily the case with proprietary, closed source software. Chattanooga.Digital uses best practices and standard methods to ensure your data is private and our software infrastructure is secure.
Who builds open source software?
A wide range of technologists contribute to open source projects. Those leading the projects — the maintainers — are often for-profit companies that sell services associated with the project, but many are individuals who just saw the need for a better solution. Chattanooga.Digital supports the projects whose code we use with in-kind and monetary contributions.
Where do I find open source software?
Open source software is everywhere; it is just not always evident. You can search for any software along with the term "open source" to find options. Beyond that, the source code itself is stored in code repositories, which use a distributed version control system called git. GitHub and GitLab are the two major repository services, but there are many others. You can also find open source applications via maintainers' websites and via online app stores… and via Chattanooga.Digital.
Does Chattanooga.Digital build open source software?
No — we just deploy "off the shelf" software, back it up, keep it up to date, and make sure it is running. We will not work on or with members' software. Our rule for co-op representatives is "hands off."
Does Chattanooga.Digital have partners to build on and customize open source software?
Yes. The co-op will have members who can provide a wide range of services to other members. The co-op will act as owner-agent for members who want to have work done on or with their digital assets — to ensure projects are clearly defined, well-managed, and get the desired results.
Want to learn more?
Pre-join the co-op via our contact form, or check out the Discover Open Source program for a guided introduction tailored to your interests.