Open Source

Open source refers to software whose source code is made openly accessible to anyone. With an open source license—such as MIT, BSD, or GPL—anyone can view, use, modify, and distribute the code as they wish. This approach encourages transparency and collaboration, allowing developers to adapt and improve projects freely.

A central aspect of open source is the ability to “fork” a project. Forking means copying the original codebase to start an independent version, letting you experiment or add new features without interfering with the main project or its users. If you develop useful improvements, you can submit your changes back to the original project for consideration, fostering a global, collaborative development process.

Bitcoin is a prime example of open source software. Its complete source code is available on GitHub, enabling anyone—from individuals to organizations—to contribute, review code, or even build new projects from Bitcoin’s foundation. Many Bitcoin wallets and systems like the Lightning Network are also open source, making the broader ecosystem transparent and open to innovation.