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What is Open Source?
Learn why you should build your next website on an open platform and host it with open-source experts.
First, let’s define open source
This refers to software that is available for everyone to use, modify and share. The open-source philosophy is that software source code should be “open” and available to everyone.
How Open-Source Software Works
Step 1
A brilliant idea is born
Website creators share their ideas and challenges within the open-source community.
Step 2
Programmers invent a solution
Web professionals develop code, website components, templates and so much more.
Step 3
Users improve their own site
The finished product is available to use and tweak for free. Everyone saves time and learns more.
Why Use Open-Source Software?
It’s FREE. Seriously.
You’ll never pay a license fee to use the software or for any updates. Period.
Look under the hood.
No secret sauce here. Open-source platforms like WordPress and Magento make the source code available to developers. This means a longer shelf life and better platform improvements.
It’s virtually limitless.
When most of the web uses an open-source platform, businesses listen. Most brands and businesses build plugins or extensions that connect to your website or online store.
You’re in control.
Closed-source platforms like Shopify and Squarespace lock you into their proprietary ecosystem. This means should you want to transfer away, you’ll have to rebuild your site from scratch.

Nexcess is an Open-Source Leader
Nexcess is an Open-Source Leader
Unlike other providers, we exclusively serve open-source websites. Magento, one of the most successful open-source ecommerce projects, was built from the ground up on Nexcess servers.
With 500,000+ websites under management, we continue to foster innovation with new features, products and tools to help our customers realize the power of open-source technology.
Identifying Open-Source Technology
All open-source projects share similar traits.
Free to Use
You don’t have to pay to use, edit or share open-source software.
Peer-Reviewed
Web professionals test solutions and leave reviews to improve the programming.
Transparency
Radical honesty is essential. The proof is in the coding.
Redistribution
There is no legal barrier to sharing modified code (but it’s nice to salute your source).
Collaboration
Developers and web professionals work together to create the best solution possible.
Active Community
You can ask questions and get quick, helpful responses from professionals.
Visible Source Code
Inspect every line of code yourself to learn how it works, why it works and what it can do.
Limitless Applications
When knowledge is shared freely, the sky is the limit. You can do anything with your site or store.
The Many Applications of Nexcess Open Source
Build amazing online experiences without worrying about maintenance and get 24/7/365 support when you need it most.
How to Choose Your Open-Source Platform
Create, host and manage your website with a provider that has specialized in open-source software for 23+ years.
Get the Best of Open Source with Managed Hosting
Nexcess gives you all of the features of proprietary software without the hassle and fees.

Optimized for your site
We could drop a bunch of tech lingo like advanced caching and multiple CDNs, but what you really need to know is that we make your website really fast. Count on it.
Security that lets you rest easy.
Not all updates are created equal. Our advanced security and plugin monitoring exposes vulnerabilities and prevents them from taking down your site.
Support that has your back, and then some.
We love assisting our customers. It’s why so many trust us. Our expert staff is ready to help you day or night. And yes, you get to talk to a real, live human.
Open Source Software FAQs
What is the general meaning of open source?
Usually, open source means open-source software, which is when anyone can access, edit and share the source code of a website. The term “open source” applies beyond software too, and generally means a democratization of data and transparency.
What is source code?
Do you need to know code to use open source?
Is open-source technology secure?
What is LAMP?
Is open source really free?
What is an open-source platform?
What is the difference between open source and proprietary software?
Does open-source technology come with support?
Can I use open source to sell online?
Where can I find out more about open source?
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