What is a characteristic of an open source software license?

An open source software license is characterized by the ability it grants to users to access and modify the source code. This means that anyone who uses the software can not only view how it works but can also change the code to suit their needs or preferences. This openness encourages collaboration and innovation within the software development community, as users can contribute improvements, fix bugs, and adapt the software for different purposes.

In contrast, other characteristics mentioned in the options reflect restrictions typically associated with proprietary software. Limited access to the code, being able to only read the code, or requiring payment to use the code are not aligned with the principles of open source software. Instead, open source licenses promote freedom, collaboration, and flexibility for users to engage with the software in a meaningful way.