Software localization has been put on the agenda. Let’s first study the open source agreement.
introduction
While pursuing the "free" open source software field, we cannot ignore the rights of programmers. In order to stimulate the creativity of programmers, there are more than 60 open source license agreements in the world recognized by the Open Source Initiative, ensuring the rights and interests of open source workers. Among them, the " 木兰" protocol, as China's first open source protocol, is particularly eye-catching.
"One article explains in simple terms the domestic open source Mulan license series agreement"
The importance of open source agreements
The open source agreement stipulates the rights and responsibilities when using open source software and sets boundaries for users. Although these agreements are not legally binding, they are key evidence when it comes to software copyright disputes. For those who plan to write open source software, understanding and choosing the appropriate open source license is key to protecting their software rights.
Mainstream open source protocols
"What is an open source agreement?" What? how to choose? 》
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GNU GPL (GNU General Public License)
There are a large number of open source software that follow the GPL. Most open source software, including Linux systems, are based on this agreement. The main features of the GPL include freedom of copying, freedom of distribution, paid distribution and freedom of modification. But please note that the GPL is not suitable for commercial software.
"Can GPL open source software be commercially used?" 》 -
BSD (Berkeley Software Distribution) License
BSD gives users great rights, allowing them to use, modify and redistribute software that follows this license. If the redistributed software contains source code, it must continue to comply with the BSD license agreement. BSD is business-friendly and many companies prefer it as an open source license. -
Apache License Version Agreement
The Apache License is similar to BSD and is suitable for commercial software. It provides developers with copyright and patent licenses, while allowing users the freedom to modify the code and redistribute it. Projects such as Apache, Hadoop, and MongoDB are all developed based on this license agreement. -
MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) Agreement
MIT is one of the least restrictive open source licenses. As long as the developer retains the original author's license information in the modified source code. Many commercial software use MIT as their open source license. -
GUN LGPL (GNU Lesser General Public License)
LGPL is a derivative of the GPL, designed specifically for class libraries. It allows commercial software to use LGPL class libraries through class library references without having to open source its own code. However, if you modify the LGPL code or its derivatives, all additional code and derivatives involved in the modification must adopt the LGPL agreement.
How to choose the right open source protocol
Faced with numerous open source protocols, how to choose becomes the key. Developers should choose an appropriate protocol based on the purpose and intended use of the software. For example, GPL is not suitable for commercial software; while BSD, Apache and MIT are more suitable for commercial environments. Also make sure that the protocol you choose is consistent with the goals and vision of the project.
Ukrainian programmer Paul Bagwell drew an analysis chart to illustrate how to choose an open source protocol.
Conclusion
The prosperity of open source software cannot be separated from a suitable license agreement to protect the rights and interests of all parties. By understanding and choosing the right protocols, we can promote the health and prosperity of open source communities and inspire more innovation and collaboration.