This document provides an introduction to open source software. It defines open source software as software with source code that is openly shared and can be redistributed, adapted, and modified. Open source software is created through collaboration between programmers, designers, and testers online. It is initiated by a lead developer who specifies the language, platform, licensing, and goals. Participants then jointly work on specifications and submit code for review and testing. Major examples of open source software discussed include the Linux operating system, the Apache web server, MySQL database, Android mobile OS, and programming languages like PHP. A brief history of open source development is also provided.
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