Pc_Madness Posted June 24, 2008 Share Posted June 24, 2008 Hey guys, I just want to double check this, but if I distribute a device running linux which contains code we've developed, just PHP stuff mostly, but also an application in C that connects to a Postgresql database, do I have to distribute the Source code for any of it? My understanding is that since we're not modifying the source code of linux or its applications, we don't have to make that available. If a person asks to see the software, do I just say we're not making changes or do I have to tell them how we did it (as in download this distro or whatever)? I think PHP is pretty clear cut since its not combining GPL'ed works as its interpretted? What about the C app, as I spose that will need libraries written in GPL? :\ Thanks in advance. :) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
markwolfe Veteran Posted June 24, 2008 Veteran Share Posted June 24, 2008 You would need to be able to provide the source for the Linux code you re-distribute. You do not need to distribute code you have written in whatever language you choose, as long as the code is all yours. If you utilize other GPL code in your project's code, then you will be subject to the GPL. If it is linking to LGPL libraries, I am less certain. There is, however, a GPL quiz that I used to have in my signature that covers a number of real-world situations involving developers of an imaginary app in a GPL environment. It may help you to review and see the correct answers for the situations that apply most to you. http://www.gnu.org/cgi-bin/license-quiz.cgi Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pc_Madness Posted June 24, 2008 Author Share Posted June 24, 2008 You would need to be able to provide the source for the Linux code you re-distribute. So I have to provide a way for them to download the source code from our web site or on CD? Even though I'm not making changes? I can't simply point them to the appropriate sites (Debian, PostgreSql, etc)? Since I doubt my company wants to host 300mb worth of files or whatever it turns out to be. :p Plus I have to wonder if anyone will send out CD's if people actually do request them since they're not very computer literate. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
markwolfe Veteran Posted June 24, 2008 Veteran Share Posted June 24, 2008 If you are re-distributing Linux on top of your app, you will need to be able to supply the source code. You can have the source available on an FTP server (it won't be a popular download), but must be prepared to have a CD/DVD offer (and yes, you can charge a reasonable amount to process the CD request). The sources have to be available on the same media/method as the binaries. (FAQ link). So if you distribute by optical media, you might have any people who want sources (rare) be happy with an FTP download of them. But if any ask for sources the same way that they got the binaries, you need to at least be prepared to send them a CD. Remember, you can charge a nominal fee for that request - it doesn't have to be at the expense of your business. EDIT: If possible, you can make it simple by distributing the source on the same DVD you distribute your product with, if there is room. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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