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Open-source solutions may be owned by everyone, but that doesn’t mean that their audience is infinite in size. In fact, many of the most robust and functional solutions were clearly designed with more exclusive groups in mind. One of those groups is definitely web developers, and a massive cartload of software is available for any developer who keeps their eyes open. Here are seven of the most impressive open-source solutions for those in the web development industry.

1. Drupal

Many of the biggest design communities were actually made using Drupal, a CMS platform that contends with fellow open source alternatives Joomla and WordPress. While it isn’t specifically designed for those who want “quick upload fixes” to the look of their site, the expandability, customization features, and technical options are mind-blowing.

Designers can use this great, free tool to make everything from massive communities to corporate sites to personal blogs and much more.

2. Apache

Apache represents the “A” in LAMP, the acronym that expounds on the core of the open source community (Linux, Apache, MySQL, and PHP-Python-PERL). This popular web server has been around for a long time, but the open source community never stops improving its already impressive resources and feature-base. Designers tapping into the resource may have a lot to learn, but this powerful code breaches into the realm of unlimited cosmic power.

3. FileZilla

FileZilla has long been one of the most successful and functional open source projects. This fabulously functional FTP client is the most commonly used by designers across the globe, regardless of their operating system or sub-section of the industry. If you’re looking for a secure, speedy, and feature-loaded client, this is your new piece of software.

4. Aptana

Java Eclipse tools are only just starting to hit mainstream, but Aptana, a tool made in Eclipse, still manages to feel like a refined and experienced utility. As the industry leading open-source web development environment, Aptana provides a massive array of features, support for all major code types, and a substantial assortment of stable plugins. This environment has been downloaded by over six million users to date.

5. Inkscape

If you want to be able to create and edit vector images without paying the massive price tag associated with Adobe Illustrator, Inkscape is your perfect option. It allows all major features and supports advanced scalable vector graphics.

6. Firefox

Firefox is the world’s only mainsteam, open source browser. With an impressive lineup of security features, dozens of developer-oriented extensions, and the famous “Firebug” in-browser editor, this browser is a sure bet for most any web developer.

7. BIND

If you ever have to interact with DNS information, BIND — a production-ready DNS interface — is a surefire open-source tool that will make the process simple.

To stay alive, web developers must live on the razor-edge of technology. Luckily, the open source community has both made this easier and more affordable to do. Keep paying attention to projects like those mentioned above to stay ahead of the constantly improving industry curve.

About the guest author:
Cathy Pierce is a business professional turned stay-at-home mom. She loves her kids, good TV and the Web. Follow her on Twitter @mrscathypierce.