Closed source

Closed source (also known as proprietary software) is a way to licence software. It is the opposite of open source. This type of software usually forbids:

• Examining the source code (computer code)
• Modifying the program
• Redistributing the program

A closed source license may place arbitrary restrictions on the program, including DRM, copy protection, and planned obsolescence. Users are not in control of this type of software.

Further reading

• Proprietary software (Free Software Foundation)
• https://defectivebydesign.org/ (also by the Free Software Foundation)