GNU General Public License

Definition

The GNU General Public License (GPL) is a widely used free software license that guarantees end users the freedom to run, study, share, and modify the software. This license promotes open source development by ensuring that any derivative works are also distributed under the same terms, thereby protecting the freedom of the software for all users.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The GNU GPL was first released in 1989 and has since become one of the most popular open source licenses.
2. One of the key principles of the GPL is that any software derived from GPL-licensed code must also be released under the GPL, ensuring continued freedom for users.
3. The GPL encourages collaboration among developers while providing legal protection for both the original authors and subsequent contributors.
4. There are different versions of the GPL, with GPLv3 being the latest version that includes additional protections against software patents and anti-circumvention laws.
5. Projects like Linux and WordPress utilize the GNU GPL, demonstrating its influence on major open source initiatives.

Review Questions

• How does the GNU General Public License support collaborative software development?
  • The GNU General Public License supports collaborative software development by allowing anyone to run, study, share, and modify the software. This openness encourages developers to contribute improvements and innovations. Additionally, since any derivative work must also be released under the GPL, it ensures that the freedoms granted by the original license are preserved for future users and developers.
• What are the implications of copyleft as established by the GNU General Public License on software distribution?
  • Copyleft, as established by the GNU General Public License, has significant implications for software distribution. It requires that any modified versions of a GPL-licensed program be distributed under the same terms, which helps maintain user freedoms and promotes a culture of sharing. This ensures that improvements made to software are accessible to everyone rather than being locked behind proprietary barriers.
• Evaluate how the principles of the GNU General Public License could impact future software innovation and user rights.
  • The principles of the GNU General Public License could greatly impact future software innovation and user rights by fostering an environment where collaboration and sharing are encouraged. As more developers adopt open source practices under licenses like the GPL, innovations can build upon each other without legal restrictions. This collective approach not only enhances technological advancements but also empowers users to have more control over their software choices, promoting greater transparency and community engagement in technology.

Related terms

Open Source Software: Software whose source code is made available for modification or enhancement by anyone, promoting collaborative development.

Copyleft: A licensing practice that allows derivative works but requires them to be licensed under the same or a compatible license, ensuring ongoing user freedoms.

Free Software Foundation: An organization that advocates for computer users' freedom and defends the rights of all users to use, study, copy, and modify software.