Types of software

Question 1

Source code

Answer 1

Software that is written by programmers.

Question 2

Open source software

Answer 2

Code that users can view and modify . Linux and python are examples.

Question 3

Strengths and weaknesses of open source software

Answer 3

It is often low in price and unwanted features can be removed however there may be errors as it isnt fully tested and security risks through malicious code

Question 4

Closed source software

Answer 4

The code is restricted for users to view or modify. Also known as proprietary software it is another companies property protected by law.

Question 5

Strengths and weaknesses of closed source software

Answer 5

The code is well tested and the company can be held responsible. However is often not free and users cannot modify the code

Question 6

Off the shelf software

Answer 6

This is any software made for general use with features that can be used in different ways for different purposes. Office software, video games and image editors are examples

Question 7

Strengths and weaknesses of off the shelf software

Answer 7

Has been thoroughly tested and is cheaper than bespoke software. However it can be expensive and additional features can reduce performance.