BSD Cause 3 vs. GPL

Attribute	BSD Cause 3	GPL
License Type	Permissive	Copyleft
Commercial Use	Allowed	Allowed
Modifications	Allowed	Allowed
Distribution	Allowed	Allowed
Derivative Works	Allowed	Allowed
Patent Grant	Not specified	Yes

Introduction

When it comes to open-source software licenses, two of the most popular options are the BSD (Berkeley Software Distribution) license and the GPL (General Public License). Both licenses have their own set of attributes and restrictions that developers need to consider when choosing which license to use for their projects. In this article, we will compare the key attributes of BSD and GPL licenses to help developers make an informed decision.

License Scope

The BSD license is known for its permissive nature, allowing users to modify and distribute the software without many restrictions. It is often referred to as a "copy-left" license, meaning that it only requires attribution to the original author and does not impose any restrictions on how the software is used or distributed. On the other hand, the GPL license is more restrictive in terms of how the software can be used and distributed. It requires that any derivative works also be released under the GPL license, ensuring that the software remains open-source.

Commercial Use

One of the key differences between the BSD and GPL licenses is how they handle commercial use of the software. The BSD license allows for the software to be used in proprietary, closed-source projects without any obligation to release the source code. This makes it a popular choice for companies looking to incorporate open-source software into their products while maintaining control over their proprietary code. In contrast, the GPL license requires that any software using GPL-licensed code must also be released under the GPL license, making it less attractive for commercial use in closed-source projects.

Derivative Works

Another important consideration when choosing between BSD and GPL licenses is how they treat derivative works. The BSD license allows for modifications to the original software to be made and distributed without any requirement to release the modified source code. This flexibility can be appealing to developers who want to build upon existing open-source projects without being bound by the same licensing restrictions. On the other hand, the GPL license mandates that any modifications to the software must also be released under the GPL license, ensuring that the source code remains open and freely available to the community.

Compatibility

When it comes to compatibility with other open-source licenses, the BSD license is generally considered more permissive and compatible with a wider range of licenses. This makes it easier for developers to incorporate BSD-licensed code into projects with different licensing requirements without running into conflicts. On the other hand, the GPL license is known for its strict copyleft provisions, which can make it more challenging to combine GPL-licensed code with code under other licenses. Developers need to carefully consider the compatibility of their chosen license with other open-source projects to avoid legal issues down the line.

Community and Support

Both the BSD and GPL licenses have vibrant communities of developers and users who contribute to and support open-source projects. However, the choice of license can impact the level of community engagement and support that a project receives. Projects released under the BSD license may attract a wider range of contributors due to its permissive nature, while projects under the GPL license may benefit from a more dedicated community of users who are committed to the principles of open-source software. Developers should consider the type of community they want to build around their project when choosing a license.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the choice between the BSD and GPL licenses ultimately comes down to the specific needs and goals of a project. The BSD license offers more flexibility and permissiveness, making it a good choice for projects that want to maximize the potential for commercial use and collaboration. On the other hand, the GPL license prioritizes the principles of open-source software and ensures that the code remains freely available to the community. Developers should carefully consider the attributes of each license and how they align with the goals of their project before making a decision.