Open Source vs. Closed Source: From Windows to Ubuntu

This post has an update. A very interesting update as I switch back to Windows!!!

For someone who spent their entire computer-literate life tethered to Microsoft Windows, the switch to an open source operating system like Ubuntu was nothing short of transformative. After six years of working exclusively with Ubuntu, navigating the Windows interface now feels like stumbling through a foreign city without a map. The change has been so profound that I’d need a few minutes just to find my way around the Windows dashboard!

If you’ve never ventured beyond the familiar shade of the Windows umbrella—or its Apple counterpart—this might sound surprising, even strange. You might wonder: What difference does it really make which operating system (OS) we use? The truth is, the choice of OS matters, and it hinges on three key factors: availability, budget, and, most importantly, purpose. Let’s dive into why I made the switch, what open source and closed source mean, and how they impact your computing experience.

Why I Chose Ubuntu: A Personal Journey

For me, the “why” behind choosing Ubuntu is straightforward. I work with an organization that develops an open-source smartphone operating system, which aligns seamlessly with the open-source ethos of Ubuntu. Additionally, I contribute to a Jekyll-based website, a static site generator that thrives in environments like Ubuntu, especially when paired with tools like Docker. (Wondering what Docker is? Think of it as a virtual toolbox that simplifies software development across different platforms—more on that another time!)

Ubuntu’s open-source nature makes it a perfect fit for my work. It’s flexible, transparent, and eliminates many of the headaches associated with proprietary systems. But to understand why this matters, we first need to unpack the difference between open-source and closed-source software.

Open Source vs. Closed Source: What’s the Difference?

At its core, the distinction between open-source and closed-source software lies in transparency and access to the code.

• Open-Source Software: This is software where the full source code is publicly available. Anyone can view, modify, and distribute it. Examples include Linux-based operating systems like Ubuntu, as well as tools like Firefox, VLC Media Player, Thunderbird and even the Android operating system (in its core form). With open source, there’s no mystery—what you see is what you get. The code is out in the open, inviting collaboration and scrutiny from developers worldwide.
• Closed-Source Software: Also known as proprietary software, this is the opposite. The source code is locked away, accessible only to the company or developers who created it. Think Microsoft Windows, macOS, or Adobe Photoshop. As an end user, you interact with the polished interface, but the inner workings remain hidden.

So, what does this mean for you, the user? Let’s break it down.

The Power of Transparency in Open Source

The most significant advantage of open-source software is its transparency. When the entire codebase is visible, there’s nothing hidden—no secret processes running in the background, no proprietary black boxes. This openness fosters trust, as developers and users alike can inspect the code for security vulnerabilities, inefficiencies, or even potential backdoors.

But let’s be honest: most users won’t dive into thousands of lines of code filled with cryptic commands and symbols. Unless you’re a developer, the raw source code might look like an alien language. So why does transparency matter if you’re not going to read the code? Here are a few reasons:

1. Community-Driven Development: Open-source software is often built and maintained by a global community of developers. If there’s a bug, someone in the community is likely working on a fix. This collaborative approach leads to rapid updates and improvements. For example, Ubuntu’s community regularly releases updates to keep the OS secure and efficient.
2. Customizability: With access to the source code, developers (or even tech-savvy users) can tweak the software to suit their needs. Want to add a feature to Ubuntu or modify how it works? You can. Try doing that with Windows, and you’ll hit a brick wall.
3. Cost: Most open-source software is free. Ubuntu, for instance, costs nothing to download and use, making it a budget-friendly alternative to Windows or macOS, which often come with licensing fees.
4. Security: Because the code is open, vulnerabilities can be spotted and patched quickly by the community. Closed-source software, on the other hand, relies solely on the company’s developers, which can sometimes lead to slower response times.

The Case for Closed Source

That’s not to say closed-source software doesn’t have its merits. Proprietary systems like Windows and macOS dominate the market for a reason:

• User Experience: Closed-source software often prioritizes a polished, user-friendly experience. Windows and macOS are designed to “just work” out of the box, with intuitive interfaces that cater to non-technical users.
• Support: Companies like Microsoft and Apple offer dedicated customer support, which can be a lifesaver for businesses or individuals who need immediate assistance.
• Compatibility: Many popular applications—think Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, or certain video games—are designed specifically for Windows or macOS. While open-source alternatives exist (like LibreOffice or GIMP), they may not always match the polish or industry-standard compatibility of proprietary software.
• Integration: Closed-source ecosystems, like Apple’s macOS and iOS, offer seamless integration across devices. If you’re entrenched in the Apple ecosystem, switching to an open-source OS might feel like a step backward.

Why Ubuntu Won Me Over

For me, the switch to Ubuntu wasn’t just about ideology—it was practical. My work with an open-source smartphone OS and Jekyll-based development thrives in an open-source environment. Ubuntu’s compatibility with tools like Docker simplifies my workflow, saving me time and frustration. Plus, the ability to customize my setup and avoid licensing costs is a huge bonus.

But the real game-changer? The sense of freedom and control. With Ubuntu, I’m not locked into a walled garden. I can dig into the system, tweak it, and make it my own. The open-source community’s collaborative spirit means I’m never alone—there’s always a forum, a guide, or a developer out there to help solve a problem.

Should You Make the Switch?

If you’re a Windows or macOS user, stepping into the open-source world might feel daunting. The learning curve can be steep, especially if you’re used to plug-and-play systems. But if you value transparency, cost savings, and the ability to customize your computing experience, open-source software like Ubuntu is worth exploring.

Start small. Try Ubuntu on a virtual machine or a spare computer. Experiment with open-source tools like Firefox or LibreOffice. You might be surprised at how empowering it feels to break free from proprietary constraints.

Ultimately, the choice between open source and closed source depends on your needs, priorities, and willingness to explore. For me, Ubuntu has been a revelation—a gateway to a world of transparency, collaboration, and freedom. Will you take the plunge?