Open Source Alternatives for Small Business - Research Paper Example

Table of Contents 1.Introduction 2 2.Ubuntu 3 3.Features 5 a.Launcher 5 b.Dash 6 c.Workspaces 6 d.Security 6 e.Compatibility 7 f.Speed 7 g.Accessible 7 4.The Ubuntu Server Edition 8 5.The Cloud Enterprise Environment 8 6.The Ubuntu Development Summit 8 7.Difference 9 8.Communities 9 9.Ubuntu and Fedora Operating Systems 10 Open Office 11 12 Backup Software: zmanda 13 Abstract In the past few years, there have emerged a variety of trends in the field of computing. In this scenario, one of the latest and most attractive trends is known as open source tools. Normally, open source software are believed to be an affordable choice for those companies that cannot afford to purchase costly software. In this scenario, these applications are an excellent choice of small and medium organization. In addition, these software applications also allow companies to tailor them according to their needs. This paper presents an analysis of three different open source software programs. This paper presents an analysis of three open source programs and all these programs are from different domains. For instance, first application that this paper discusses is Ubunto that is an operating system. In the same way, second application is application software and third is a utility program that is supported by a software application. 1. Introduction In the past few years, open source technology has emerged as a very attractive trend which has caught the attention of a large number of software developers and organizations. Basically, open source software applications allow people to access the code of applications openly. In fact, they can make changes and update the software product. The standard invented in the application development industry in the late 90s, with a number of releases of open source products and operating systems, and it has while subtle into other societies also. Additionally, there are a number of powerful arguments intended for releasing anything in an open source format, whether it is a digital recording, a complete operating system (OS) or a software tool. One of the basic reasons behind the adoption of this trend is that this mode of software development and products allows end users to openly get an overview of the source code. So that they could make changes to it in order to match it with their requirements. In this scenario, it gives confidence for the sake of steady growth and modernism, as moreover building a community of shared data and information. In addition, a number of businesses those generate open source systems depend on modernisms of clients to increase characteristics as well as to recognize and fix possible feeble points, and these businesses enthusiastically give confidence for changing their technology based products (Smith, 2013; Wu, Gerlach, & Young, 2011; Gurbani, Garvert, & Herbsleb, 2005). In addition, the majority of people consider that all types of open source software applications and programs are free of charge. This is not, actually, the situation. A number of businesses manufacture open application that necessitates people to disburse for them, with the charges supporting development of innovative products and extra characteristics. It is as well general to observe shared source licenses on products, people pay for. For example, Apple Computer, releases a number of its technology through support of open licenses (Smith, 2013; Wu, Gerlach, & Young, 2011; Gurbani, Garvert, & Herbsleb, 2005). This paper presents a detailed analysis of an open source operating system ‘Ubuntu’. In this scenario, this research covers a number of aspects associated with this operating system. 2. Ubuntu The Ubuntu is an Operating system that works on the Linux platform which is rapidly gaining popularity and is the choice of many, who want a substitute for Windows. The majority of people want efficient and economical ways to interact digitally through the array of contemporary applications available, and Ubuntu has proven to have been very successful by catering to this and other computer related yearnings. Ubuntu is a completely open source operating system which is designed using the methodology of a Linux kernel. While Linux had already made a mark as an enterprise server medium in 2004, it did not offer software free of cost for everyday computer use. A group of them ventured to develop a simple desktop which they called Ubuntu. Their objective was to integrate Linux into the social and economic fabric by offering free software on consistent terms and conditions, and to finance it through the various services offered by Canonical (Helmke & Graner, 2013). Ubuntu’s differentiating quality from the other products of Linux lies in the fact that it does not endeavor separately in developing upscale versions and the regular, free of charge, ‘community’ ones. There is a collaboration to produce a distinct, superior quality edition, which is maintained on a regular basis for a committed period of time. The release of a particular version as well as its maintenance is free of charge for everyone. Ubtutu’s version 4.10, which carried the code name of Warty Warthog, was unveiled in October 2004, and there was already much enthusiasm about this new operating system. In just a year’s time follow this, the number of Ubuntu users swelled, and the company boasted sales of literally a massive amount of free software. With regards to the governance of Ubuntu, volunteer experts from the world over have undertaken the responsibility to look after the most important and crucial aspects of this software. Canonical is not solely involved and it is therefore an established fact that the Ubuntu project is maintained through a connection between Canonical and the thousand of independent experts who apply their skills to render Ubuntu the Operating System of choice for all its users (Grant, 2012). With the recent growth in demand for light, mobile desktop connectivity, as well as on the Cloud data environment, Ubuntu has evolved further, leading the pack of software and OS developers in both areas. There is the Ubuntu Netbook version as well as the Ubunti Enterprise Cloud. These have established rather lofty standard for effective and efficient information dissemination as well as management. The Amazon EC2 and Rackspace’s Cloud both carry the Ubuntu editions, and it also comes installed on desktop PCs distributed by Dell, Lenovo, and several other vendors. 3. Features Ubuntu consists of several software equipments, most of which are sold without any licensing fee. The main objective of Ubuntu is to provide a user friendly, solid, and risk free operation system platform. Its Ubiquity installer makes it easy to fix it onto the hard drive of a computer, and there is no need to reboot the machine beforehand. There is much focus to availability and access to Ubuntu for an unlimited amount of users. The Ubuntu desktop is rather prestigious in appearance, stylish yet simple. Its speed is rapid, it is reliable and secure, and offers numerous features which allow for a unique computing experience. Among these features, there is web surfing, office applications, socializing and emailing facilities, music and mobile accessories, photography and images, the Ubuntu Software Centre, and Ubuntu One. This last one is the personal cloud that allows one to integrate all the digital features and facilities of such computer. One can synchronize all such files, review such notes and contacts, and even collect all such music on such mobile phone! It’s simply amazing as to all that can do with Ubuntu. Discussed briefly below are some new features that come with Ubuntu (Petersen, 2008). a. Launcher The Ubuntu Launcher is attractive and consists of impressive tools and applications. What’s interesting is that one can either keep it hidden or open, and it is also possible to affix or remove applications, and monitor all the windows that are activated on such desktop (Orloff, 2008). b. Dash The brand new Dash of the Ubuntu OS makes is possible to access all shortcuts and to look out for new applications and programs. One can get easily operate such email, play music, view pictures, and do a lot more. c. Workspaces The workspace tool on Ubuntu provides a lot of convenience in perusing and toggling between several windows and applications (Krawetz, 2011). d. Security Rest assured that when using Ubuntu, one activity will remain safe and secure. All such information will remain confidential and well guarded against hackers. There is an inbuilt firewall as well as an antivirus feature that come with each desktop. Even if there is a potential risk, one will be provided instantly with an update that can be activated right away (Hagen, 2010). The App Armor program provides enhanced security for an Ubuntu user, and it averts any infringement by harmful elements on such private files. Additionally, Firefox and the other applications guarantee that any sensitive information stays confidential. This means that one can engage in carrying out online banking activities and share proprietary information reliably with others. e. Compatibility Ubuntu is operable easily and conveniently with a vast array of other applications. One can fix in an MP3 device, a camera, as well as a printer and be able to do any necessary one want to with these devices. There is simply no need to insert an activation CD. And most interestingly, Ubuntu can run very well alongside Windows as well, enabling one to swap and transfer Microsoft Office file easily between the two operating systems (Nixon, 2010). f. Speed While Ubuntu can be installed quickly onto any computer, it operates at a break speed on brand new ones. Since there are no extra programs or experimental software to create a large, starting up the computer and opening a browser window becomes a matter of mere seconds (Grant, 2012). g. Accessible The fact that Ubuntu is so easily available to a large number of users reflects that accessibility is the primary objective of the Ubuntu manufacturers. They are indiscriminate as to who has access to Ubuntu, and what’s more, this operating system has been translated into 25 languages. Besides, there are also a number of important supporting technological features that also come at no cost to the buyer at all. 4. The Ubuntu Server Edition The Ubuntu operating system is also available in a server version. Presently, the Ubuntu 10.04 version is launched with Long Term Support, which will be valid till April 2015. The server version comes with several supporting facilities for new features that come with modern hardware devices as well as innovations such as the Cloud Enterprise design. The Ubuntu Server can easily be accessed without any charges. Users can opt to compensate for any consultation or technical assistance activities (Jang, 2009). 5. The Cloud Enterprise Environment A prominent aspect of the Ubuntu Server version is the tools it offers to create a public or private Cloud. This enables one to have virtual computing capabilities, applications, and the adaptability to establish an organizational cloud, which is comprised of various Virtualization facilities. The Ubuntu Eucalyptus and Open migration tools for transferring organizational information to the enterprise Cloud environment are due to be introduced by Canonical in the Ubuntu 11.10 Server version (Hagen, 2010). 6. The Ubuntu Development Summit The Ubuntu Developer Summit will be held shortly in which all software developers will be gathered. All software developers are required to submit their ideas preceding to the release of a novel public edition of Ubuntu. In the initial stages of designing this new operating system, various designers from different regions of the world assembled to assist outline and make a clear scale for the finalization of a new version of Ubuntu. The summit was made public, but it is not a symposium, demonstration or other audience-oriented occasion. Relatively, it is a prospect for Ubuntu developers, who generally cooperate with each other online, to collaborate personally on precise responsibilities (Nixon, 2010). 7. Difference There are various operating systems which are designed for Linux which includes SuSE, Debian, Gentoo, and RedHat. Ubuntu is so far another contender who is giving a tough competition to others present in the market. There are some significant elements which make Ubuntu unusual. On the foundation of Debian, one of the most extensively applauded, technically complex, and well-maintained distributions, Ubuntu have aimed to formulate a distribution channel which will provide a latest and coherent Linux systems for desktop and server calculation. Ubuntu comprises numerous vigilantly chosen packages from the Debian supply and preserve its influential package organization system which allows trouble-free installation and spotless exclusion of programs. As compared to most distributions that deliver with a large quantity of software that may or may not be of use, Ubuntu's list of packages is condensed to a number of significant applications of high eminence (Petersen, 2008). 8. Communities With the aim of reaching other users worldwide, who are less technical, and to move forward towards the sense of community around the distribution. Such communities are designed for having Local Communities, which is also known as LoCos are dedicated towards marketing it effectively. Originally, each country had one LoCo Team which is focused on advertising and distributing it to the required target market (Helmke & Graner, 2013). 9. Ubuntu and Fedora Operating Systems The Operating Systems manufactured are gaining immensely in popularity, and are perceived as very competitive with the Microsoft Windows Operating System. At present, about 200 Linux products are in use, and several IT professionals simply love them. The open source feature of Linux is what motivates them to use Linux, especially at home. Two of the most sought after products of Linux are the Fedora and Ubuntu operating systems. And while several attempts have been made to determine which of the two is better than the other, this has not been an easy task at all! Both operating systems have evolved rapidly over the past five years, and their respective current versions, the Fedora 12 and the Ubunti 9.10 have seen unprecedented development (Nixon, 2010). Ubuntu strives to make an open source option available as a substitute to Microsoft Window and Microsoft Office. The objective of Fedora, on the other hand, is to develop an operating system that features the most modern and up to date facilities that it can, and offer these as an open source, absolutely free of charge. While the Ubuntu’s focus is on providing a user friendly computing experience, Fedora endeavors to be creative and innovative. This can be confusing to the layman, but tech savvy people clearly comprehend the intricacies of what differentiates the two operating systems. Both are based on the GNONE desktop, they can be installed using a live CD, and the total installation time is less than half an hour. And besides the themes and wallpaper, the GNONE desktops of the two operating systems hardly manifest any difference (Orloff, 2008). As already mentioned, Ubuntu and Fedora are installed with a live CD. However, if ever in the future, there is DVD support available, then the present issue of space constraint will be eliminated. Ubuntu makes use of the Debian packages, which used to affix any missing packages automatically. Fedora on the other hand uses the RPM packages which required users to install each package one at a time. The Modern Graphical User Interface however has practically removed the differences between the two packages, and both operating systems are rather competitive with the exquisite packages that they use. With regards to security, ‘sudo’ is used in Ubutu, and it has administrative features and also requires that a root password be used for any command to be activated. A separate password altogether is needed to boot up the Fedora operating system. Fedora also makes use of SE Linux that provides enough security to prevent the addition of any software, unless the user deactivates it. It can thus be said that Fedora provides for slightly more security than Ubuntu All said, there is really hardly anything particular that distinguishes the Ubuntu and Fedora operating systems from each other. Both consist of excellent features, and both are competitive, even in terms of trying to excel and stand out individually (Grant, 2012). Open Office Like Ubuntu operating system, OpenOffice is also open source software. But there is a difference between these two applications; one is operating system while other is application software. This is a suite of various applications which comprises the key desktop software, for example spreadsheet, word processor, formula editor, presentation manager and drawing applications, with a user interface and characteristic set analogous to other office suites. Additionally, OpenOffice is freely offers under a dual LGPL/SISSL based software product license. In this scenario, the LGPL is obviation of Lesser General Public License. In the same way, the SISSL is also knows Sun Industry Standard License. Hence, this double licensing system allows its uses to choose any type of license according to their needs. Both the LGPL and the SISSL are equally OSI-approved as open source product licenses [Jue13]. In addition, one of the most important benefits of OpenOffice suit is that it signifies open sources, open XML-based file formats, open language-independent APIs (application programming interfaces) and open access. In this scenario, these advantages influence source code developers, particularly those who are part of the open source software community. Eventually, OpenOffice as well offers value for API and macro developers in addition, certainly, the end-user community, which will take pleasure of advantage of new improvement as well as applications. Moreover, some other benefits of OpenOffice suit comprise a widespread source foundation for open source office applications, a global community of application and software developers, improved potential and interoperability ensuing from open, open XML-based file formats, language autonomous APIs, and a frequent reference accomplishment. Similarly, open access to application program code and adjustments are also major advantages of openoffice suite. Additionally, unlimited localization and porting is also offered in OpenOffice. Free binaries are also one of the major features of Openoffice. Furthermore, Openoffice also offers a great deal of flexible development support for open language independent APIs or open source. There is a direct developer contribution in the development of the code base of Openoffice. The capability of Openoffice for developers is able to take the technology in innovative and ground-breaking directions and into new marketplaces [Ope02]. Backup Software: zmanda There is another open source utility program offered by Zmanda. Zmanda Enterprise developed a system to tackle a number of challenges associated with data backup and recovery. In this scenario, this tool integrates quick simplified, installation, management, enterprise-class functionality and small cost of system subscription. As an open source application, Zmanda Enterprise simply makes use of standard formats and tools those are effectively freeing us from being protected into a vendor to recover our saved and archived data[Zma13]. In addition, Zmanda is open source backup application that is secure, flexible and scalable to dynamic computing settings. In this scenario, Zmanda is able to save us from costly proprietary backup application and those routine backup scripts that have an inclination to fracture at the worst times. Zmanda is consequently carefully documented, from society wikis to available system management texts, which it might be difficult to distinguish presently how simple a Zmanda backup can be[Zma132]. Moreover, Zmanda Recovery Manager (ZRM) a specific tool used for MySQL makes simpler the life of a Database Administrator who requires a practical however flexible and robust backup and recovery solution for MySQL server. In addition, with ZRM for MySQL we are able to schedule completely as well as incremental backups of our MySQL database [Zma131]. Conclusion This paper has presented an analysis of three different open source programs. OpenOffice is a suite of applications that comes with a number of applications freely available over the Internet. These applications contain all the features of standard Office tools. In the same way, Zmanda, an open source backup and recovery tool presents an excellent support for business organizations. Third tool is an operating system ‘Ubunto’. Overall Ubuntu is termed as too user-friendly; it has made every possible effort for being as good as with other operating systems. A number of users have been using this and have found it very effective and secure. The major advantage of using such proprietary software is that it offers scalability and security in a much broader manner. Ubuntu is found to be the best O/S available and it bundles and allows easy and unnoticed installation of non-free software, which it the best. Other noticeable benefits include the wealth of software available to install within seconds from repositories. Hence it is found to be the best running software for business and highly secured environment. References Jue13: , (Haas, 2013; OpenOffice, 2013), Ope02: , (OpenOffice2, 2002), Zma13: , (Zmanda, Inc., 2013), Zma132: , (Zmanda2, 2013), Zma131: , (Zmanda, 2013), Grant, R., 2012. Ubuntu Made Easy: A Project-based Introduction to Linux. New York: No Starch Press. Haas, J. (2013). openoffice. Retrieved May 10, 2013, from About.com: http://linux.about.com/cs/linux101/g/openoffice.htm Hagen, W.v., 2010. Ubuntu Linux Bible: Featuring Ubuntu 10.04 LTS. New York: John Wiley & Sons. Helmke, M. & Graner, A., 2013. The official Ubuntu book. New York: ACM SIGSOFT Software Engineering Notes. Jang, 2009. Ubuntu Server Admn. Tata McGraw-Hill Education. Krawetz, N., 2011. Ubuntu: Powerful Hacks and Customizations. New York: John Wiley and Sons. Nixon, R., 2010. Ubuntu: Up and Running. Canada: O'Reilly Media, Inc. OpenOffice. (2013). What is OpenOffice.org?: An introduction to the program, its features, and its community. Retrieved May 10, 2013, from http://www.openoffice.org/documentation/manuals/oooauthors/Intro.pdf OpenOffice2. (2002, August 01). FAQs. Retrieved May 12, 2013, from http://www.openoffice.org/FAQs/faq-overview.html#4 Orloff, J.T., 2008. How To Do Everything: Ubuntu. Tata McGraw-Hill Education. Petersen, 2008. Ubuntu: The Complete Reference. Canada: Tata McGraw-Hill Education. Smith, S. (2013). What is Open Source? Retrieved May 09, 2013, from WiseGeek.com: http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-open-source.htm Wu, C.-G., Gerlach, J. H., & Young, C. E. (2011). The Influence of Open Source Software Volunteer Developers' Motivations and Attitudes on Intention to Contribute. International Journal of Open Source Software and Processes, Volume 3 Issue 4 , 24-48. Zmanda. (2013). MySQL Backup and Recovery. Retrieved May 10, 2013, from http://www.zmanda.com/backup-mysql.html Zmanda, Inc. (2013). Amanda Community Edition. Retrieved May 12, 2013, from http://www.zmanda.com/amanda-community-edition.html Zmanda2. (2013). The 15-Minute Backup Solution. Retrieved May 09, 2013, from http://www.zmanda.com/quick-backup-setup.html Read More