Question

Given the following information about Open-Source Operating Systems:
a. Free to use and distribute
b. Easy to customize
c. Availability of technical support Which of the following is correct ?

• A. a, b and c
• B. a and b only
• C. b and c only
• D. a only

Hint:

Distinguish between the inherent freedoms offered by open-source licenses (use, distribution, modification) and the variable nature of formal technical support.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Understanding Open-Source Operating Systems

Step 1: Concept of Open-Source Operating Systems

An open-source operating system is one where the source code is publicly available, allowing users to study, change, and distribute the software for any purpose.

Step 2: Analyze Statement ‘a’ – “Free to use and distribute”

Open-source licenses typically grant the freedom to:

• Run the software for any purpose
• Study and modify the source code
• Redistribute original and modified versions

Conclusion for ‘a’: Generally correct.

Step 3: Analyze Statement ‘b’ – “Easy to customize”

The availability of source code enables developers to modify the OS to meet specific needs. This makes open-source systems highly customizable.

Conclusion for ‘b’: Generally correct.

Step 4: Analyze Statement ‘c’ – “Availability of technical support”

Technical support for open-source OSes can vary:

• Community support via forums and documentation is often available
• Professional/commercial support may be offered for some distributions (e.g., Red Hat)
• Not all distributions provide guaranteed or free professional support

Conclusion for ‘c’: Not universally true or guaranteed for all open-source OSes.

Step 5: Evaluate Options

• Option (1): Includes ‘c’ – Not always reliable
• Option (2): Includes only ‘a’ and ‘b’ – Both are correct
• Option (3): Includes ‘c’ – Again, not universally true
• Option (4): Includes only ‘a’ – Leaves out ‘b’, which is also a key trait

Step 6: Select the Most Accurate Option

Correct Answer: Option (2) – Open-source OSes are free to use and distribute, and easy to customize.

Quick Tip: Open-source software offers freedom and flexibility, but support quality may vary by distribution and user skill level.