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Microsoft does make its source code available under the "Government Security Program", so a similar level of auditing is possible. I don't quite understand the
by quasque 14y ago
Microsoft does make its source code available under the "Government Security Program", so a similar level of auditing is possible.
I don't quite understand the problem with governments not being able to modify proprietary source code though - where is the practical disadvantage?
- guard-of-terra 14y agoProprietary software comes as a huge blob of compiled code. Most often you can't just throw any part of that code away - it will "void the warranty". And you certainly can't check all the code in that blob. With open source, you can customize your systems to a great extent. You also employ local specialists to do so. And you can make minimal systems for critical applications. With predictable behavior. Ones that don't message box or screen saver on you.
- quasque 14y agoI do understand that there are useful applications for open source software (I've used it myself for a few projects), but in the context of providing laptops for students and servers for running the school IT infrastructure there really does not seem to be any huge advantage. What possible customisations would be required to the core source code of Microsoft's Windows and Office to have them work more effectively in an educational environment?
- guard-of-terra 14y agoThe grandparent was arguing about governments in general, not just education.
- quasque 14y agoMy point still stands. Why would a government need to modify the source code of Windows or Office? Any customisations or modifications to the stock install would be done by reconfiguring parts of it using the standard tools, or by writing (or purchasing) additional software.
- DanBC 14y agoA government might want to check that the blob isn't opening access to closed networks; or secretly collecting data somewhere; or secretly adding hidden meta data to documents.
- quasque 14y agoSource code is not required for such auditing, it just makes it easier in some ways. Anyway, the main method of distribution of open source software is as precompiled binaries so the same issue arises there.
- gizmo686 14y agoIf the binary blob does not match the source code, that will be discovered quickly. Also, if the Government (or other entity) is doing an audit, it does not seem like much work to compile from source.
- gizmo686 14y agoAssuming it was designed to be moddified in the way nessasary. Once you want unanticipated changes, having the source makes things much easier.