Apache 2.0 License vs. BSD-3 License

Attribute	Apache 2.0 License	BSD-3 License
License Type	Permissive	Permissive
License Version	2.0	3.0
License URL	https://www.apache.org/licenses/LICENSE-2.0	https://opensource.org/licenses/BSD-3-Clause
Commercial Use	Yes	Yes
Modification	Yes	Yes
Distribution	Yes	Yes

Overview

Open source licenses play a crucial role in governing the use, modification, and distribution of software. Two popular open source licenses are the Apache 2.0 License and the BSD-3 License. While both licenses are permissive in nature, they have distinct attributes that make them suitable for different types of projects and developers.

License Scope

The Apache 2.0 License is known for its flexibility and comprehensiveness. It covers not only the distribution of the software but also the patent rights associated with it. This means that users of Apache-licensed software are granted a patent license to use any patents that may be infringed by the software. On the other hand, the BSD-3 License is more focused on the distribution of the software itself. It does not include any patent grants or protections, making it simpler in terms of legal obligations.

Attribution Requirements

One key difference between the Apache 2.0 License and the BSD-3 License is the attribution requirements. The Apache 2.0 License includes a notice requirement, which means that users must include a copy of the license and any copyright notices in their derivative works. This ensures that the original authors receive proper credit for their contributions. In contrast, the BSD-3 License does not have a specific attribution requirement, giving users more freedom in how they acknowledge the original authors.

Modifications and Derivatives

Both the Apache 2.0 License and the BSD-3 License allow users to modify and distribute the licensed software as part of their own projects. However, there are differences in how modifications and derivatives are handled. The Apache 2.0 License requires that any modifications made to the original software be clearly marked as such, and that any derivative works be distributed under the same license terms. On the other hand, the BSD-3 License is more permissive in this regard, allowing users to distribute modified versions under different licenses.

Compatibility with Other Licenses

Another important consideration for developers is the compatibility of the license with other open source licenses. The Apache 2.0 License is known for its compatibility with a wide range of licenses, including the GPL. This makes it a popular choice for projects that may need to incorporate code from different sources. In contrast, the BSD-3 License is also compatible with many other licenses, but developers should be aware of potential conflicts with copyleft licenses like the GPL.

Commercial Use

Both the Apache 2.0 License and the BSD-3 License allow for commercial use of the licensed software. This means that developers can use the software in proprietary projects and sell their products without restrictions. However, it is important to note that the Apache 2.0 License includes a patent grant, which can provide additional legal protection for commercial users. The BSD-3 License, on the other hand, does not offer such patent protections, making it a simpler choice for commercial projects.

Community and Support

When choosing a license for an open source project, developers often consider the impact on the community and the level of support available. The Apache 2.0 License is widely used in the open source community and is supported by the Apache Software Foundation, which provides resources and guidance for projects using the license. The BSD-3 License, while less common, also has a dedicated community of developers who can offer support and assistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two licenses may depend on the specific needs and goals of the project.