AWS Transitions OpenSearch to the Linux Foundation: What You Need to Know
AWS recently announced that it is transitioning OpenSearch, its open-source fork of the Elasticsearch search and analytics engine, to the Linux Foundation with the launch of the OpenSearch Foundation. This move comes after Elastic changed its license for Elasticsearch and Kibana, prompting AWS to create OpenSearch in an effort to prevent large cloud providers from offering hosted services based on their software.
## OpenSearch’s Journey
When AWS created OpenSearch in 2021, there was skepticism around the project due to AWS’s lack of experience in managing such a large open-source project. However, AWS’s goal from the beginning was to be community-driven and encourage contributions. Over time, AWS has opened up the project, allowing for broader governance and increased community involvement.
## OpenSearch Foundation and Premier Members
With the launch of the OpenSearch Foundation, several large companies, including SAP and Uber, are joining as premier members. Other companies like Aiven, Aryn, Atlassian, Canonical, Digital Ocean, Eliatra, Graylog, NetApp Instaclustr, and Portal26 are joining as general members. This collaboration will further enhance the development and growth of OpenSearch.
## AWS’s Commitment to OpenSearch
AWS is committed to growing its contributions to OpenSearch. The project has already seen significant innovations, such as transitioning to a more cloud-native architecture and introducing updates like the separation of compute and storage. With the rise of AI, OpenSearch is also gaining interest as a vector database.
## The Linux Foundation’s Role
The OpenSearch Foundation will follow the Linux Foundation’s governance model, with a governing board and a technical steering committee. The Linux Foundation’s involvement will provide OpenSearch with a neutral home for open and collaborative development. Jim Zemlin, the executive director of the Linux Foundation, expressed excitement about supporting the OpenSearch community and helping them provide powerful search and analytics tools worldwide.
## Benefits of the Transition
One of the main reasons behind AWS’s decision to contribute OpenSearch to the Linux Foundation is to leverage the foundation’s services and expertise in managing and growing open-source projects. This move also aims to dispel the perception that OpenSearch is primarily an AWS-driven project, allowing for continued growth and broader adoption.
In conclusion, AWS’s transition of OpenSearch to the Linux Foundation marks a significant milestone in the project’s journey. With increased community involvement, premier members joining the OpenSearch Foundation, and the support of the Linux Foundation, OpenSearch is set to further develop as a powerful open-source search and analytics tool.