In proteomics, and bioinformatics in general, multiple misconceptions exist about open/closed source software:  Cost-free software is not always open-source: Many programs are freely available for non-commercial or academic use but do not meet open-source criteria. Similarly, "free and open-source software" (FOSS) refers to the freedom to run, modify, and share the software, not necessarily its financial cost. FOSS may involve expenses for services like support or hosting, but it ensures that users retain the freedom to use, adapt, and distribute the software as they wish ().