Open Source Software's Significance and Why is it better than proprietary software?

I have been learning 3D modelling using Maya and I found that there is an Open Source Software just like it: Blender. Since Maya is proprietary software, I just used the free trial and then abandoned it after the trial ended. Blender has almost the same features as Maya or any other 3D modelling software as far as I know.

For those of you who don't know what an open source software is, its a free software where we can create and modify the source code, fix bugs and contribute something of value to that software. Linux is a well-known example for open source software. So why it is important to use open source software? I'll tell you why.

The First and foremost reason is Security. Now, I'm not saying open source software is more secure than the closed software. But it can be checked and verified by the user before using. Since the source code is open to the public, anyone can view and edit the source code and fix any bugs. While bugs in proprietary software take weeks or months to fix, bugs in open source software can be fixed by anyone.

Customization is also another reason. As an open source software, anyone can modify it to their liking which is impossible with proprietary software as it is limited in terms of flexibility. The source code is only accessed by the company which sells it.

Open Software has Longevity as it is constantly being updated by the user themselves. This type of software is built by the community collaboratively. Since it is built by the community and by those who have real interest and passion towards the software, the quality is often higher when compared to proprietary. It is built according to the users needs and liking and can be changed anytime.

Freedom is also an important reason. All proprietary software packages use custom protocols to limit the users from using the software to the fullest potential. They will create lock-ins and force you to upgrade to latest versions. That's not the case with open source software. You have full freedom and can do whatever you want with the software. There is a large community of users who are ready to help.

As a conclusion, All I want to say is that Open source software has lot of benefits and you can try it for free. If you don't like you can just walk away as there is nothing to lose. It would to be a shame to not consider using it instead of paying for the licence for proprietary software, atleast at some places.