Foundational software [4.5.7.4]

Foundational software consists of software libraries on which new applications can be built, and the middleware that interconnects applications. This type of software deserves special attention, because it functions as an enabler for software higher in the development stack. Supporting foundational software can function as a multiplier that increases the impact and effectiveness of a funding mechanism.

Often-used software in the lower layers of the development stack should also be more likely to qualify for security-related support. As the Heartbleed bug has taught us, the impact of vulnerabilities at a foundational level can be dramatic. [EU-FOSSA, CII]

This article is part of the research performed for the EC project 'Development of a Funding Mechanism for Sustaining Open Source Software for European Public Services' (2022).