Linux: Open Source vs Proprietary OS (1991)
by Anonymous
Linus Torvalds released Linux under the GPL, making it free and open source. This created an operating system developed by thousands of volunteers that now runs most of the internet's servers, Android phones, and supercomputers.
Open Source (GPL)
1991
year
Free to use, modify, and distribute
license
Global volunteer contributors
development model
Runs 96% of servers, all Android phones, all supercomputers
outcome
Proprietary (BSD-style or Commercial)
1991
year
Controlled by one company
license
Paid developers only
development model
Windows/macOS model — less server adoption
outcome
Want to make your own version?
Sign up to create your ownMore in History
Panama Canal: Sea-Level vs Lock Design (1906)
Lock-Based Canal vs Sea-Level Canal
Wikipedia: Open Editing vs Expert-Written (2001)
Open Editing (Anyone Can Edit) vs Expert-Written (Nupedia Model)
Bismarck: Social Insurance vs Laissez-Faire (1883)
State Social Insurance vs Laissez-Faire Capitalism vs Socialist Revolution
Zheng He vs Columbus: Scale of Exploration (1405 vs 1492)
Zheng He's Treasure Fleet (China) vs Columbus's Expedition (Spain)
SpaceX: Reusable vs Expendable Rockets (2011)
Reusable First Stage vs Expendable (Industry Standard)
Ford: Assembly Line vs Craft Production (1913)
Moving Assembly Line vs Traditional Craft Production