25/09/2018
Background. Open source software solutions are now able to replace entirely the much more expensive and less functional closed source (licensed) products. The data breaches of recent history where tens of thousands of computers using Windows operating systems were infected with computer viruses ( WannaCry, Mischa, Petya etc) resulted in companies making considerable unplanned investment to replace computers, together with the loss of information. Windows is a closed operating system. Users cannot access the source codes. Hackers can access the closed system thorough Kaspersky Anti Virus and launch attacks.
What can computer users do about this closed circle? Are there any other solutions?
YES.
Closed Source versus Open Source.
Why do companies like Google, Twitter, Facebook, Amazon, IBM and McDonalds use open source Linux based operating systems? Because the open source is more flexible and offers greater security with no hidden costs.
The distinction between closed-source and open-source is simple. The open-source software codes are available to any IT specialist. The codes can be transformed into a tailor made program. Think of baking a cake. Your tastes are different to others, your selection of ingredients will be what you want and do not need to conform to the wishes of others. The many thousands of Linux users are able to upgrade the systems daily, fixing bugs if necessary and defeating hackers.
Microsoft and Apple will sell you only a cake with the ingredients they have selected. They do not reveal how the cake is made and don't allow any one else to change the recipe or improve it. In real life this means significantly more errors and data security holes in these closed-source systems as there are many thousands of specialists less addressing the problems each day.
Another problem of closed-source programs is that their users give up informations each time they use the system. Order goods on Amazon, search something on the Web, use one of the 13 different windows on the Windows 10 operating system and comprehensive information is being passed to the closed-source operator. This can be sold or made available to third parties.
Many clients pay developers subscription fees for using systems such as Enterprise Resource Management and Customer Management. Essentially paying for software rental. What if the developer goes bankrupt or increases fees beyond the client's budget? If you decide that you want to change the developer of a closed-source system you lose the opportunity to continue using the system and working with the accumulated company data gathered over years; data backup is available but there are no programs for data process.
Open-source software code is freely available to every client. It can be analyzed and modified. There is only one condition- you must not make the code closed. Full transparency must be ensured. Why so important? You can change your software provider as you have Digital Freedom with open-source. The new software co-operation partner continues using your codes and can further develop them as the client desires.
Price Differentials. Do you want to save money and have better security?
We have already identified that open-source offers better security than closed-source. Normally for a better product you would be expected to pay more. Take an example of the most popular closed-source software for one computer and licences:
Microsoft Windows 10 Professional: €141
Microsoft Windows Office 2016 Home and Business: €237
Microsoft Support (1 incident): €423
Symantec Endpoint Protection Small Business Edition: €22
TOTAL COST FOR ONE COMPUTER: €823
Assuming that the average lifetime of software is 3-4 years then the annual cost of the computer in the above model is €200. For a Linux based operating system the cost will be substantially less. Additionally service levels can be adjusted to suit client needs; lower requirement, less cost. In general open-source products are 25-30% cheaper than closed-source products with similar functionality.
An appropriate tool for every company department?
YES.
At GEMINENT EU we can provide the necessary tools for the entire digital management of companies from small to large. We cover:
Enterprise Resource Management. (Similar to Microsoft Dynamics, SAGE or Netsuite). Our system includes the nesessary management and automation tools for all areas of the company, from the full functionality of the CRM module, integrated website (including e-store) and the client portal. We will cover all aspects of multi level production and manufacturing process management including integrated project management, bar code in stock system, together with a comprehensive financial management module.
Private Online Cloud Storage. (An alternative to Google G-suite, Microsoft Sharepoint/Office 365.) You will have a private cloud storage and collaboration platform providing storage and sharing optimization for all types of files ( including any existing Microsoft Office files, versioning control, file based comments etc). This highest level of security will include multi-user document development and management systems together with online audio and video communications.
The under-laying technological platform is the same as the Federal Government of Germany is implementing for their everyday operations.
You identify the requirement and we will find the solution.
SECURE OPERATING SYSTEM
Our operating system is designed to make it extremely difficult for any virus to elevate to the level of privilege needed to infect one of our systems. Only you, the user, can grant such a privileged access. Do not. In addition all our web related programs are available in 'secure mode'- separate containers are built automatically when the user starts a safe application and destroyed when it is closed. The container is completely isolated from any user data and information. This enables the user to browse safely with no worries about malicious scripts, viruses and phishing web pages.
In addition our operating system includes all necessary programs for home and work situations, including 3D drawing, photo and video processing and an office software package, email etc.
HOW TO TRANSFER FROM CLOSED-SOURCE TO OPEN-SOURCE
To ensure that you have the most successful and least stressful transfer the key guidelines must be followed:
The Company Management must be committed and have a clear vision of what they are trying to achieve.
Company IT specialists must understand the benefits of the changeover. Some will be reluctant to change from the closed-source systems because this will be out of the routine they are familiar with. We can assist with training and the necessary management/ administrative instruments for IT personnel.
OUR MISSION IS TO SAVE YOU MONEY AND GIVE YOU A MORE SECURE SYSTEM
