What characterizes "open source" software in the context of cybersecurity?

Open source software is characterized by its source code being publicly available for anyone to inspect, modify, and enhance. This transparency is a crucial aspect in the context of cybersecurity, as it allows a community of developers and security experts to review the code for vulnerabilities, contribute improvements, and rapidly address security issues.

This open nature fosters collaboration and innovation, leading to quicker identification of flaws and the development of patches or enhancements. Consequently, using open source software can enhance security by leveraging the collective expertise of a diverse group of contributors.

In contrast, options that discuss paid licenses, restricted access only for developers, or limitations on user modifications do not align with the fundamental principles of open source, which prioritize accessibility and collaborative improvement.