Same old arguments on using open source software #OpenSource #Linux

It’s been three decades since Linux launched the modern world of free, open-source software but you’d hardly have known that at a New Hampshire state legislative hearing Tuesday.

The hearing, concerning two bills that aim to have New Hampshire government use more non-proprietary software, covered debate points on security, cost, maintenance and control that haven’t changed since the days Digital Equipment Corp. ruled New Hampshire’s tech roost. In fact, DEC was mentioned more than once.

Opponents say the lack of corporate development and oversight creates unpredictable programs that don’t have a good backup, raising issues about security, privacy and maintenance.

“Who handles their tech support, who handles their updates, who handles their problems? If they’re not making any money doing this, if there’s no financial incentive, how is the government supposed to … rely on that sort of process for a product that’s free?” asked Rep. Stephen Pearson, R-Derry.

See more in the Concord Monitor.


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