For computer users open source software is a good way to attain inexpensive software that is reliable and safe. For developers it is chance to learn about or help produce community software. Each person has different criteria for making a software decision. Most average computer users should at least explore open source software alternatives such as the Open Office suite and the Mozilla browser. They should also consider trying an open source operating system. Open source operating systems present an opportunity for a new type of computer experience. A good way to test an open source operating system is to set up a dual boot computer.

There are many reliable open source software programs available for all operating system platforms. We have included some of the top programs on this CD. The user should consider open source software a good option when examining the factors for making a decision about software. For a beginning developer open source software is a good way to learn programming through viewing code. For the seasoned developer open source provides the opportunity to take community software view it, improve on it and redistribute it. Every user should assess exactly what they want to accomplish before choosing to invest time and money in any software.