Definition: Open Source, in the context of e-commerce and software development, refers to software or technology solutions that are made available to the public with their source code freely accessible, modifiable, and distributable. Open source projects encourage collaborative development and transparency, allowing a global community of contributors to enhance and innovate the software. In e-commerce, open source solutions are widely used for building online stores, payment gateways, and other essential components of the digital retail ecosystem.Explanation: Open source has played a pivotal role in the e-commerce landscape by offering a cost-effective and highly customizable alternative to proprietary software. Open source e-commerce platforms like Magento, WooCommerce, and OpenCart provide businesses with the freedom to adapt, modify, and extend their online stores to meet unique needs. This flexibility empowers e-commerce companies to create tailored solutions and ensures that they are not locked into a specific vendor's ecosystem.The open source philosophy extends to various aspects of e-commerce, from content management systems (CMS) to payment gateways and customer relationship management (CRM) tools. The collaborative nature of open source projects fosters innovation and allows for rapid development and updates, as developers from around the world contribute to the codebase. It also contributes to the development of a vibrant ecosystem of plugins, extensions, and themes, giving e-commerce businesses the tools to build and maintain an online presence that aligns precisely with their vision and requirements.In summary, open source solutions are a cornerstone of e-commerce, offering a flexible and cost-effective approach to building and maintaining online stores. They empower businesses with the freedom to adapt and innovate while fostering a global community of developers and contributors working together to enhance the e-commerce technology landscape. Open source has revolutionized the way online businesses operate and create value for their customers, making it a fundamental concept in the digital retail industry.