Freeware: What is Free?
Definition of Freeware
Freeware vs. Open-Source Software: What's the Difference? While freeware is free software, it nevertheless maintains its copyright. Alternatively, open-source software is both free and publicly available to use, modify, repackage and redistribute with no limitations.
What Is Freeware?
Possible Freeware Limitations
If you are looking at open-source code and “free” hosting there are usually strings attached. These strings may be:
small website space allocation
number of videos you are allowed to use
many of the tools you need are turned off
the freeware brand continually markets upgrades to the paid version
you are locked into their code or themes
no changes to the basic theme
no exporting the website software or themes
sometimes only very basic or blank themes are available
cost perspectives are skewed because you need to pay for basic functions once you start to create
Principles of Open Source
Transparency
Collaboration
Rapid Growth
Inclusive
Community
Limitations of Open Source Learning Management Systems
The basic package is very bare bones
Steep learning curve
Open Source LMS - Learning Management Systems are generally used with high-volume upper education groups because of the need for secure servers which give total control to the local University, non-profit, or group.
You may need dedicated developers to create or modify the code
It is not intuitive to start
If you have shared domain hosting, the system may require different databases than the installed SQL databases. This may cause version update issues.
Benefits of Open Source Learning Management Systems
The community grows and shares new ways to manage data
There are no to very few limitations for new ideas and user or data growth
There is no cost to install it and or use the code
You have access to a global online community of learners and educators