A proprietary system is a system that is based on software and equipment licensed from the copyright holder. Some examples include proprietary software, operating systems, and entire computer systems. The way the user uses the system is restricted both by the terms of the license and by locks within the system that are designed to prevent certain activities. In this type of system, a person may be allowed to use it, but not modify or change it entirely.
Ebooks sold by Amazon can only be read on a Kindle device or through a Kindle app.
In the example of an operating system, a company develops an operating system and then compiles it so that the system’s source code can only be read by a computer, not a person. When someone wants to install that operating system, they must pay a license fee, which gives the user permission to use the software while the developer retains copyright and ownership. The system usually has an interface that allows the user to make changes to increase functionality, but the user cannot change the operating system at the source code level.
Many types of computers and electronic devices use proprietary systems.
For example, most operating systems allow people to manipulate the screen to make things bigger or smaller, change wallpapers, and change color schemes. However, someone couldn’t get the source code to do something like disable or enable a feature. It is also not possible to directly modify the source code to change the way the software works.
Portable MP3 player with proprietary system.
People using proprietary systems are often supported by the developer or manufacturer. Although the system is closed and does not allow direct user modifications, people can make many types of changes through various system interfaces to suit their needs. People can also install other systems that can work internally or with the proprietary system to enhance functionality. For example, if an operating system did not have a built-in clock, the user could download a clock program to display a clock.
The opposite of a proprietary system is an open system, where the source code is freely available and people can make changes at any level. Some companies license their products for a fee and release the source code, while others provide their products for free with the source code. An advantage of publishing the source code is that it allows developers to create software that works well with the system and to develop patches and fixes for problems. One drawback is that it is easy to copy the source code and distribute it to other users who do not pay a license fee.
It is also possible to completely shut down an entire proprietary system. For example, Apple MP3 players are proprietary and not designed to be repairable by users, not only in terms of software but also in terms of hardware.
People using proprietary systems are usually supported by the developer or manufacturer.
