Which of the following is a characteristic of open-source software?

• A. It is usually more expensive than proprietary software
• B. Its source code is available for anyone to see and modify
• C. It is designed for specific hardware only
• D. It requires a subscription fee for usage

Answer: (B)

Open-source software is defined by its accessibility and flexibility, which is primarily characterized by the availability of its source code. This means that anyone can view, modify, and distribute the code, allowing users to tailor the software to their specific needs or to contribute improvements back to the community. This openness fosters collaboration and innovation among developers, resulting in software that can be more secure and reliable due to the input of many individuals.

The other options do not align with the fundamental principles of open-source software. Open-source software is often available at little to no cost, challenging the idea that it is usually more expensive than proprietary software. It generally supports a variety of hardware platforms rather than being designed for specific hardware. Additionally, open-source software typically does not require a subscription fee for usage, diverging from the model of proprietary software that often relies on such fees for access.