A Look at Open Source Security Solutions

As open source software becomes ever more popular with individuals, companies, and even governments, it has begun to make inroads in markets once dominated by closed source, proprietary software. The field of computer and network security, for example, is witnessing the rise of several open source software solutions.

Such progress is not without obstacles. Many IT staffers are understandably wary of experimenting with something as crucial as network security. Others are suspicious of open source security providers and wonder how reliable they are compared to commercial alternatives. With Coverity’s positive report on the improving state of open source security and reliability, more IT departments are looking into the open source market.

Why choose open source? Cost, for one thing. Open source solutions almost always cost significantly less than their commercial counterparts and may save you and your company thousands of dollars every year. Open source security also offers increased modularity; if your IT department has the requisite expertise, the ability to integrate new ideas and new protections into your existing security suite is a definite plus.

On the other hand, open source does come with a price. In some cases, finding centralized customer support may be difficult with open source companies, as answers tend to come from a scattered customer-user base. Several open source security providers, however, have attempted to address the problem, combining the streamlined efficiency of a proprietary business model with the flexibility, low-cost, and innovation of an open source enterprise.

To learn more about how open source software may be right for you or your organization, contact MPower today by calling 972.220.0340.