Open Invention Network is a company that helps keep software and technology safe. They help keep them safe by creating a kind of 'barrier'. This barrier is like a fence that keeps bad people out, so that no one can copy or steal the software or technology. They also help the companies protect their inventions so that the inventions will stay unique and not get copied by others. Open Invention Network works by having the companies sign a special agreement that says that they are a part of this network and will work together to protect the inventions in it. In return, the companies get special protection from each other in case someone does try to copy their inventions.