Important to Understand: It Doesn’t End with the Software
When it comes to digital security and privacy, many assume that using open source software is enough. But that’s only part of the equation. In reality, the foundation — the hardware — plays an equally critical role. If the underlying hardware is closed, proprietary, and unverifiable, even the most transparent software can be undermined without your knowledge.
The uncomfortable truth: True end-to-end control over your digital environment is incredibly complex — and for most people, not realistically achievable without significant trade-offs.
Why? Because for 99% of users, compromises are unavoidable.
Technical Know-how: Verifying firmware, modifying BIOS/UEFI, or sourcing open-hardware alternatives like RISC-V or Coreboot-based laptops require deep technical expertise. Most users simply don’t have the time or background to dive that deep.
Lifestyle and Family Integration: Technology isn’t used in isolation. It’s embedded in our homes, shared with partners and children, and must “just work.” Most people choose convenience, reliability, and usability over absolute control — especially when family routines, professional tools, and daily communication depend on it.
I sincerely hope the open source movement continues to evolve — not just in software, but across the entire technology stack — so that we can gradually close these critical gaps. A future where both hardware and software are transparent, verifiable would empower individuals and organizations alike to take true ownership of their digital lives.
#OpenSource
