問74
頻出度★☆☆
OSS (Open Source Software) に関する記述のうち, 適切なものはどれか。
平成23年度 特別試験 ITパスポート試験 問74
テクノロジ系ソフトウェア › オープンソースソフトウェア
This question's explanation and your answers so far.
解説
問 74
Incorrectア
Incorrect. What an OSS license governs is the freedom to use, modify, and redistribute the software itself; it does not regulate the services that accompany it. Charging for support services such as performing the installation for the customer, deployment consulting, and post-deployment maintenance and inquiry handling is in no way prohibited; on the contrary, it is a typical revenue model for companies that work with OSS. There is no restriction saying that such services must not be charged for.
Incorrectイ
Incorrect. Neither the licenses nor the OSD places any restriction on who may take part in developing or improving OSS. Beyond individual volunteers, it is quite common for companies to assign their own engineers to development and improvement as part of their business; many major OSS projects, starting with the Linux kernel, are sustained by contributions from developers employed by companies. There is no requirement to take part as a volunteer.
Incorrectウ
Incorrect. What OSS requires is that the source code be obtainable, not a restriction on the distribution method such as it having to be downloadable from the Internet. Providing the source code on media such as a DVD for roughly the cost of the medium also satisfies the requirement. This choice is wrong because it replaces the essential point, namely guaranteeing availability, with an obligation to use one particular distribution channel.
- エ
正解 エ is correct. The “open” (free) in OSS does not mean that the price is zero; it means that the source code is disclosed and that it can be freely used, modified, and redistributed. The Open Source Definition (OSD) states that redistribution must not be restricted, but it does not prohibit receiving payment when distributing. Therefore, packaging OSS as a CD-ROM, a boxed product, or a distribution that comes with support, and redistributing it for a fee, is permitted. In fact, many companies sell Linux distributions as paid commercial products. Note, however, that even when redistributing for a fee, you must make the source code obtainable by the recipient and pass on the same freedoms (to use, modify, and redistribute); that is the condition.
ここがポイント
- The “free” in OSS does not mean free of charge; it means that the source code is disclosed and can be freely used, modified, and redistributed. Redistributing for a fee and providing support for a fee are both permitted.
- What the Open Source Definition (OSD) constrains is the disclosure of the source code and the passing on of the freedoms; it does not constrain who does the development (a company or volunteers), the distribution method (the Internet or physical media), or the price (paid or free).
用語