Open Source
What It Means for You
Open source software means that the original code is public. Anyone can view, edit, improve, and share it freely. This is very different from proprietary systems, where code is hidden and controlled by one company.
ERPNext is a free and open source ERP, published under the Go to GNU General Public License (GPLv3).
This gives you full freedom to:
Use the software however you want
Edit or modify it to suit your requirements
Share the same with others in your team or group
Distribute your improvements or updates
The entire source code of ERPNext is publicly available on Go to GitHub, and thus it is transparent and reliable.
System Security – Your Data Remains Secure
ERPNext places importance on security, applying strict encryption to safeguard data — both when stored and when transmitted.
Two broad forms of encryption are employed:
- Symmetric Encryption:
One key is applied for both locking (encryption) and unlocking (decryption) data. It's quick but requires safe key exchange.
- Asymmetric Encryption:
There are two keys – a public key and a private key. It's safer to send data over networks.
ERPNext uses both. Symmetric encryption for storing data and asymmetric encryption while transferring it among users or systems.
Other key safety gadgets are:
- Access Controls:
Establish roles and permissions to ensure that only the correct individuals are able to view or modify the information.
- Intrusion Detection:
Monitors system activity and notifies you if anything untoward occurs.
- Regular Security Audits:
Third-party companies audit ERPNext on a regular basis to ensure that it remains secure and current.
ERPNext's robust security ensures that it can be trusted to hold sensitive business data.
Advantages of Encryption in ERPNext
Safeguards customer and financial information from hackers.
Prevents leaks that might hurt your brand or profit.
Assists in complying with legislation such as GDPR and other international data regulations.
Why Open Source is Important
Open-source solutions provide greater freedom and flexibility:
You're not locked-in to a single company or expensive renewal costs.
Host ERPNext on your server or anywhere else — your data remains yours.
Receive assistance, ideas, and feedback from users across the world.
Most users contribute proactively to making the system better by reporting issues and providing solutions.