August 23rd, 2019
A few years ago, there was a lot of skepticism regarding open-source software. There was a lot to complain about; the lack of similar programs not being identical in terms of function or interface, performance differences, the lack of plugins or even the lack of similarity in plugins, or the lack of API integration and support with third party programs. One of the most significant issues was the lack of support open-source software lacked. If something went wrong, more often than not, you either had to work around it, wait for the next release, or further invest in a different software program.
Today, open-source software is growing in popularity. There is an increasing number of organizations that are integrating open-source solutions into their IT operations or even building entire infrastructures around it. In fact, open-source thrives in the ecosystem created by cloud computing, and there are numerous applications now for cloud computing. There is a clear trend of more than 60% of cloud-based workload utilizing open-source software. The growing number of open-source development tools, automation, and infrastructure platforms are playing a crucial part in fast-growing open-source adoption. So how exactly does open-source software play a role in Cloud hosting today?
Defining open-source For The Cloud
According to Techopedia,
“Open-source cloud is any cloud service or solution that is built using open-source software and technologies. This includes any public, private, or hybrid cloud model providing SaaS, IaaS, PaaS, or XaaS built and operated entirely on open-source technologies.”
Techopedia further explains that:
“An open-source cloud is designed and developed using open-source technologies and software such as:
• Open-source operating system, DBMS and software development frameworks
• Open-source workflow and business applications
• Virtualization stack (Hypervisor, virtualization management)
• Hardware with open-source firmware
Wikipedia defines open-source software development as:
“Open-source software development is the process by which open-source software, or similar software whose source code is publicly available, is developed by an open-source software project.“
Open-source software can be anything from shopping cart software, site building software, Content Management Systems (CMS), migration tools, testing and debugging tools, package management tools, software engineering tools, etc.
The key factor is the support that is provided by developers who create open-source software has grown exponentially. Now more than ever, most open-source software developers have several ways to support their customers, whether by telephone, email, and live support via their web page and more.
Cloud hosting companies are fully aware that time is a huge factor for businesses to establish their online presence as quickly as possible. Cloud computing integrates open-source software into automation. For example, 1 click install software is utilized to install web applications rapidly. This feature speeds up the install process immensely, and it allows Cloud consumers to develop their online presence quickly.
Conclusion
Open-source software has dramatically increased automation, diversity in applications, and much more, all being utilized by Cloud computing companies every day. If you have not yet done so, you should consider switching your online presence to the Cloud today.