LINUX FOUNDATION RESEARCH

We’re investigating the impact of open source collaboration to solve the world’s most pressing challenges.

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About LF Research

LF Research publishes actionable and decision-useful insights into open source software, hardware, standards, and data based on empirical research methodologies. Through leveraging community networks, project databases, surveys, and qualitative findings, and through its commitment to best practices in primary research, Linux Foundation Research is the definitive home for data-driven insights into open source for the benefit of governments, enterprises, and society at large.

35 Years of Linux

How did a hobby project evolve into the open source engine of global infrastructure? The milestone report by LF Research examines the kernel’s historic and organic evolution as well as its present-day impact. 

 

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Participate in Our Research

Join the LF Research Forum and participate in our surveys and interviews to give back to your community and earn events & training discounts!

 

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Interested in conducting research?

Review our prospectus for more information, and email us at research@linuxfoundation.org

 

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The State of Commercial Open Source 2026

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Commercial open source companies are proving that community trust and developer adoption can successfully translate into durable enterprise revenue. The second annual research study on the state of commercial open source, produced by LF Research and Serena Capital with sponsors AWS, CNCF, Futurewei, LF AI & Data, and Red Hat, delivers ground-up operational benchmarks from 225 founders and leaders.
 
The data reveals that 4 out of 5 companies convert users within 12 months, stacking multiple monetization models rather than choosing just one. Additionally, 72% view AI as a net tailwind, and when adaptation is needed, they choose to open their core twice as often as locking it down. The report suggests prioritizing community trust and recognition to secure the top competitive advantage in COSS.
 
Download the report for more guidance on feature gating, enterprise sales, and sustainable scaling.
 
Authors
  • Sam Boysel, The Linux Foundation
  • Anni Lai, LF AI & Data Foundation
  • Matthieu Lavergne, Serena
  • Foreword by Stormy Peters, AWS
Additional Resources

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