Open source software is thriving in 2025, and the State of Open-Source 2025 report by Perforce explains why. A massive 96% of organizations have either maintained or increased their use of open source solutions compared to last year, with larger companies leading the charge.
Cost is King
The biggest driver? Cost savings. For the fourth year in a row, the high price of proprietary software licenses pushes companies toward open source. With economic uncertainty lingering, businesses are prioritizing affordable, flexible solutions.
Beyond Savings
It’s not just about money. Companies are also embracing open standards and interoperability, making open source a strategic choice for seamless integration and innovation.
Challenges to Overcome
However, it’s not all smooth sailing. Key hurdles include:
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Outdated software: 40% of large enterprises still rely on CentOS 7, discontinued in June 2024, with 28% lacking plans to address security vulnerabilities.
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Security updates: Keeping up with patches is tough for many.
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Talent shortage: Finding skilled professionals for open source tech remains a struggle.
Why It Matters
Open source is more than a trend—it’s a cornerstone of modern business. By tackling these challenges, companies can unlock its full potential for cost savings, flexibility, and innovation.
Source: Perforce State of Open-Source 2025 Report
