FC0-U71 Applications and Software Practice Question
A user installs an open-source image editor on a personal laptop. The software is distributed with source code, and the user is allowed to modify and redistribute it under the same license terms. Which licensing characteristic best describes this software?
⚠ Common exam trap
The trap here is equating free-of-charge software with open-source software, when the distinguishing factor is the granted rights, not the price.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Open-source license permitting modification and redistribution under the same terms
Providing source code together with permission to modify and redistribute under the same license terms is the hallmark of an open-source license, particularly a copyleft one. Proprietary, freeware, and shareware models all restrict modification, redistribution, or both, and none of them align with the rights described. The defining factor is the granted freedom to use, study, change, and share the software.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
Open-source license permitting modification and redistribution under the same terms
Why this is correct
The scenario describes software whose source code is available and whose license allows the user to modify and redistribute it under the same terms. That combination matches an open-source license, often called copyleft when derivative works must carry the same terms. It explains both the availability of source and the permission to share changes.
- ✗
Proprietary license with per-seat activation
Why it's wrong here
Proprietary software is distributed without source code and restricts copying, modification, and redistribution, often enforced by activation or license keys. The scenario explicitly states that source code is provided and that modification and redistribution are permitted, which contradicts a proprietary per-seat model. This licensing type would also block the user from sharing modified versions.
- ✗
Shareware license with a trial period before purchase
Why it's wrong here
Shareware is distributed for a limited evaluation period and requires payment to continue using it. It does not normally include source code or grant redistribution rights. The scenario describes ongoing permission to modify and redistribute, which is incompatible with the trial-then-pay model of shareware, so this licensing type does not fit.
- ✗
Freeware license that permits unlimited personal use
Why it's wrong here
Freeware is free of charge but remains closed source and typically prohibits modification and redistribution. Cost is not the defining factor in the scenario; the user is given source code and the right to change and share it. Freeware would not grant those rights, so it does not describe the license in question.
Go deeper
Related to this question
About these practice questions
Courseiva writes every FC0-U71 question from scratch — 988 in total, each with an explanation and a wrong-answer breakdown. None are copied from real exams or dumps. Learn why practice questions differ from exam dumps →
JA
Written and reviewed by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
Last reviewed September 2026 · checked against the official CompTIA exam blueprint
This FC0-U71 practice question is part of Courseiva's free CompTIA certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the FC0-U71 exam.