Abstract
This chapter discusses the hidden costs associated with free solutions. Not all facets of implementing free security solutions are free. There are always costs of one type or another, which vary in magnitude and relevance based on individual circumstances. Training costs are one of the biggest expenses when it comes to implementing a free solution. Some other costs associated with free solutions include hardware costs, consulting costs, and hidden costs. The chapter also discusses the benefits of using free software. By evaluating the expected savings and costs, one can form a more practical, accurate picture of what will be gained by implementing a free security solution. The purchase cost is one of the single largest cost savings of using free software. Free solutions help reduce maintenance cost. Commercial products are hardly customizable. If some degree of customization is available, it is rarely free. With free solutions, customization is easily affordable or even free. However, not all free software is customizable. One advantage free solutions often have over their commercial counterparts is that of development speed. Another potential strength of free solutions is the speed with which they can be implemented. The single biggest drawback to implementing a free solution in a production environment is one of support, or lack of support.
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