Not a Freeware

Open source. This term is perceived differently by different users. I have come across a number of business and technical users that think that since software falls under the Open Source tag, it is a freeware. This is a misconception. There is a huge, commendable Open Source community that works consistently, unstoppably towards enhancing the existing tools and technologies. However, most open source vendors have a subscription model and an attached cost. The cost entails the user to various levels of tested and certified versions of software, compatibility and upgrade advice, support benefits, free upgrades, service packs etc.

These benefits are not a part of the community edition of the software. The subscription to the enterprise edition of the software makes available the support directly from the creators of the software This cost however is a fraction of the cost incurred on procuring a propriety software license. Several whitepapers are available reiterating this fact. E.g., http://www.ciol.com/Developer/Open-Source/News-Reports/Save-up-to-96pc-on-ECM-with-Open-Source-stack/41208113377/0/