Save money with free open source software

What is open source?

Open source software is free software.  It is created by conscientious programmers who are frustrated with the limitations of commercial software vendors and think they can do a better job.  In some cases, open source alternatives are far superior to the commercial programs they replace.  For example, I stopped using Microsoft’s Internet Explorer nearly two years ago.  Instead, I use Firefox, which is fast, more secure, highly customizable, and just as user-friendly.

What programs do I use?

Here are just a few of the open source programs I use.  I have saved over $1,200 by using these instead of commercial software.

• Open Office – replaces Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, etc.)  Cost savings = $149
• GIMP – a photo editing program often compared to Adobe Photoshop.  Cost savings = $899
• Kompozer – web development software.  Alternative to Dreamweaver.  Cost savings = $200+

Total savings = $1,248 – that’s double what my computer cost.

Understand that I’m not a power user of any of these programs.  The creators of GIMP, for example, make it very clear that their product is not intended to mimic or replace photoshop.  It does most of the same things, but the user interface is different, and there are a couple of patented features unique to Photoshop that professional users need.  Likewise, Kompozer is not a full replacement for Dreamweaver, and web design professionals will probably prefer the commercial product.

Having said that, it makes no sense for me to drop over $1,200 for the commercial software, when free alternatives are sufficient for my needs.

Is all free software open source?

No.  Some programs are “freeware” or “donationware.”  Donationware programs are free to use, but the authors ask that you donate money if you find them useful.  Some companies give away a free, watered down version of their commercial software in the hope that you will upgrade to the paid version.

How do I find free software?

Whenever I need a program for a certain task, I use Google to find it.  I use the words “free” or “open source” plus whatever task I want to do.  For example, when I wanted a free alternative to Photoshop, I Googled “open source photo editor” and got a long list of options and reviews.  When I wanted a program to sync my new cell phone with Google Calendar, I used Google to find MyPhoneExplorer.

How do I avoid scams and viruses?

• Research it: Before downloading anything, look for reviews of it.  Google search the name of the software plus “malware,” “virus,” or “spyware.”  I’ve ruled out a few programs based on what I found out that way.  Also, I’m automatically suspicious of websites that have numerous grammar or spelling errors or which look like they were translated verbatim from Mandarin Chinese.  There is no reason to take a chance on a suspicious program- you can always find a safe alternative if you look.
• Use Antivirus Software: Make sure you have a good antivirus program installed, and use it to scan everything you download before you install or run it.
• Subscribe to this blog: I write reviews of programs and websites I like.  If I find out about something cool or useful, you’ll read about it here.

Are there any disadvantages to open source software?

• Tech support and user manuals, or lack thereof: Commercial software vendors provide warranties, user manuals and tech support for their products.  Open source software doesn’t often have those luxuries, although you can usually find instructions on the web written by considerate bloggers.

Where can I find out more?

• Lifehacker.com – Lifehacker is a blog with multiple authors who write about gadgets, software, and productivity.  I subscribe to their RSS feed, and have found several extremely useful programs through them.  In fact, as I write this, I am using software they recommended to convert DVD’s for viewing on my portable media player.
• OpenSource.org – This site explains in depth what open source is and the philosophies behind it.
• Subscribe to my RSS feed for updates.

Do you use open source software?  Share your opinion in the comments.

© 2008, Jonathan Johnson. All rights reserved.