When open source code is modified, the licensing usually stipulates it must be released to the community. Unlike proprietary (or closed source) software controlled by the business that owns it, like Dropbox, open source software is developed with the intent and permission for others to use the software for any purpose they wish. Photo by Dean Drobot, Shutterstock What Does Free and Open Source Mean?įree and open source software is software for which anyone can inspect, modify, and enhance the source code, according to Opensource. Businesses that want control over their options can turn to free and open source cloud storage and file hosting solutions.

Others have tried to emulate Dropbox’s features giving rise to a host of Dropbox alternatives.

Built-in word processor (Dropbox Paper).

Since then, Dropbox has grown its offerings to include: Popular Dropbox Featuresĭropbox was introduced in 2007 as a file management system with a free plan to make it accessible to everyone.

Users can access Dropbox accounts with desktop apps on Windows or Mac, with its mobile app for iOS and Android mobile devices, and any web browser. Dropbox offers anytime, anywhere access, and real-time syncing across all devices. For users looking for a central repository to share, sync, and store files, Dropbox is a secure cloud storage service for virtually any size and media type.

Dropbox free cloud storage