We love giving things away for free! InfoSys offers competitive prices, hardware at wholesale prices, and a free analysis of your business infrastructure.

 

 

Free Software

 

Is your business familiar with open source software (OSS)? Many aren't.

If your business needs help choosing the right OSS solution, installing or using OSS, call us at 454-5555 and we will gladly help. We use Linux (an open source operating system) as the backbone of all our major server solutions; Open Office, a freely available, full-featured office suite; VNC, for remote access and computer remote control (for free!), and many, many more.

 

Open source software for Windows
Open source software for Mac

 

The above links point to only a short list of the most popular open source software available. Use your favourite search engine to search for the type of software you are looking for. For example, type "open source accounting software" for a list of free accounting software.

 

What is open source software (and why don't they just call it free software)? Open Source Software (OSS) is given away freely. More importantly, the source code to the software is also freely available; not only can anyone use the software, but anyone can see exactly how it works, and improve upon it. OSS is developed in a public, collaborative manner. OSS began as a marketing campaign for free software. The free software movement was launched in 1983. In 1998, a group of individuals advocated that the term "free software" be replaced by open source software (OSS) as an expression which is less ambiguous and more comfortable for the corporate world.

 

Is it really free? Yes. However, many private companies offer value-added versions of open source software. It is important to make the distinction between truly open source and value-added versions. "For pay" versions are beneficial, but not necessary, and they may include support plans, additional features, or add-ons that can be purchased one piece at a time.

 

What type of open source software is available? Essentially any type of software you can think of. OSS can range from complete operating systems (Linux) to office suites (Open Office) to software for your portable devices. Many private companies offer value-added versions of OSS. It is important to make the distinction between truly open source and value-added versions. “For pay” versions are beneficial, but not necessary, and may include support plans, additional features, or add-ons that can be purchased one piece at a time.

 

Why has it not become a bigger challenger to licensed software? Lack of marketing is often the cause. Competing with developers such as Apple or Microsoft isn't easy, the funds just aren't there. However, open source developments are starting to become a significant economic force, with positive effects. The point to remember: open source developers care less about making money and more about making quality software for the masses.