FC0-U71 Applications and Software Practice Question
Which of the following is an example of open-source software license?
⚠ Common exam trap
FC0-U71 often tests the confusion between open-source licenses and free distribution models, so candidates might mistakenly pick freeware or shareware as open-source because they are 'free' in cost, but open-source specifically refers to source code availability and freedom to modify.
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
✓
GPL
The GNU General Public License (GPL) is a widely used free software license that guarantees end users the freedom to run, study, share, and modify the software. It is a classic example of an open-source license because it requires that any modified versions distributed must also be licensed under the GPL, ensuring the software remains open source. Other options like freeware, shareware, and freemium are not open-source licenses; they are distribution models that may not provide source code or the freedom to modify and redistribute.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
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Freeware
Why it's wrong here
Freeware is distributed at no cost but its source code stays proprietary, so it grants no freedom to modify or redistribute. It is tempting because zero price feels like openness, yet freeware is the correct answer only when the question asks about cost-free distribution rather than source-code rights.
- ✓
GPL
Why this is correct
The GNU General Public License grants users the freedom to run, study, modify and redistribute software, requiring derivative works to carry the same terms. This copyleft reciprocity is the defining characteristic of an open-source licence.
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Shareware
Why it's wrong here
Shareware is proprietary software distributed for trial use with restricted rights, not an open-source licence granting source-code freedoms. It tempts because it is freely downloadable, but it would be correct only when describing trial distribution models, not licences permitting modification and redistribution.
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Freemium
Why it's wrong here
Freemium is a commercial model offering a free tier with paid upgrades, granting no source-code rights. It tempts because the free tier appears open, but it would be correct only when describing product monetisation, not licensing that permits inspection, modification and redistribution.
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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.