What about this open source thing?
Open source is a term that is used to describe software that is free to use and modify, it gets its name because the original code used to create the software, the 'source', is open for addition and alteration by the general public. This is also true for web development software, platforms for web hosting, website servers, databases holding website data and all other software that website designer or developer would use to produce and maintain a website.
The ability for users to become actively involved in the development and expansion of their favorite software has sparked some amazing projects that involve thousands of contributors worldwide. With the recent growth of the Internet into private homes has accelerated this movement by connecting even more potential contributors.
The most impressive, and important projects is Linux. Linux is an operating system, a collection of software tools that allow you to interact with your computer and provides an environment within which you can use your applications. Like Microsofts Windows, Linux is available in a number of versions with the addition that it also appears in a number of 'flavors' called distributions. Distributions are different collections of tools prepared by different people for different types of tasks. One of the most popular distributions, cryptically called Red Hat, comes complete with a graphical installation wizard and choice of desktop manager.
Setting up Linux is easy, once you've done it a couple of times. If you're new to the open source alternative you will find things a bit different, just remember that nearly all the software is written and distributed free of charge. Because it's not tied to a release schedule and is the cumulative efforts of passionate, dedicated software developers from the world over, Linux has many advantages to it's shrink wrapped counterparts.
The Freedom to Choose
Open source is any software whose code is available for users to look at and modify freely. Linux is the best-known example; others include Apache, the dominant software for servers that dish out corporate web pages.
Cleanwebis a strong supporter of the open source movement and employs technologies such as Linux, Apache, PostgreSQL, Java, Tomcat and more. There are a number of advantages to using open source alternatives for running a business, these include:
Affordability
By implementing solutions based on open source software it is possible to drastically reduce to costs associated with the project and thus provide an affordable solution. Open source allows Cleanwebto moderate costs while maintaining quality and integrity.
Reliability
Because most open source software is designed and developed by the worlds leading programmers as a donation of time and energy it is not forced to meet development timeframes. Combined with its lack of 'bells and whistles', many open source solutions provide more robust and reliable platforms from which to operate a business.
Accessibility
Having the freedom to work with the source code for major applications such as Linux and Apache allows us, as developers, to create systems that are cut down and streamlined for a particular purpose. doLithes web servers for example, run on minimised Linux kernels. The removal of all unnecessary function provides added security and stability, important elements for any business.
Security
While no computer connected to the Internet is ever entirely safe there are a number of simple steps to take that renders a machine less vulnerable to penetration. Cleanwebenforces strict and rigorous security measures to ensure web servers are well protected from intrusion. By re-compiling the core of several major applications Cleanwebhas effectively removed the ability for hackers to send unsolicited attacks to normally vulnerable ports.
We use Red Hat Linux for day-to-day computing and office management. The Linux environment offers a safe and secure environment from which to manage electronic communication, web browsing and office documents. Unlike Microsoft's Internet Explorer and Outlook programs, which are highly susceptible to macro driven viruses, the Linux alternatives are virtually free from this curse. You can order you copy of Red Hat Linux now, see details below.
