GNU General Public License v3 (GPLv3)
The reference 'strong copyleft' license. Any software that uses a GPLv3 component must be distributed in its entirety under the GPLv3 license.
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Risk Assessment by Project Type (Proprietary / Commercial)
1. SaaS / Cloud Application (operated by you)
CURRENTLY SAFE. Would become incompatible if you ever distribute the software.
2. Distributed Software (Dynamic Linking)
DIRECT RISK: This license would require you to publish your entire source code.
3. Distributed / Embedded Software (Static Linking)
DIRECT RISK: This license would require you to publish your entire source code.
4. 100% Internal Tool (Undistributed)
CURRENTLY SAFE. Would become incompatible if you ever distribute the software.
Philosophy & Ideal Use
- Ensure that the software and all its modified versions remain free forever (the principle of strong copyleft).
- Protect users against the privatization of the software and patent restrictions.
Your Main Obligations
- Publish your entire project under GPLv3.
- Provide the complete and corresponding source code to anyone who receives the binary.
- Include a copy of the GPLv3 license.
✓ Permissions
- Commercial use
- Modification
- Distribution
- Private use
- Patent grant
⚠ Conditions
- Share the source code of the entire project
- The project must be under the same license
- Include copyright and license text
✕ Limitations
- No warranty
- Limitation of liability