Open source software is becoming increasingly prevalent in software development, but its suitability for cloud dev tools is nuanced. While it offers advantages such as fostering innovation and promoting standards, it may not be the best choice for all cloud scenarios. Companies building cloud-based platforms often prefer tight control over their core intellectual property to drive growth and adapt to users' needs. This proprietary approach can provide early monetization, agility, focus, integration, and support, but may hinder open-source benefits. A balanced approach, where the core platform is kept proprietary while extensions and plugins are made available as open source, seems like a viable middle path that allows developers to customize while companies can still evolve the base platform. Ultimately, the optimal balance between open-source and proprietary components depends on each company's product and business model, and the landscape is still evolving as new best practices emerge.