EPL 2.0 vs. GPLv2

Attribute	EPL 2.0	GPLv2
License Type	Permissive	Copyleft
Compatibility with other licenses	Compatible with GPL	Not compatible with EPL
Derivative Works	Can be distributed under different license	Must be distributed under GPL
Patent Grant	Includes a patent grant	No explicit patent grant

Introduction

When it comes to open source licenses, two of the most popular choices are the Eclipse Public License 2.0 (EPL 2.0) and the GNU General Public License version 2 (GPLv2). Both licenses have their own set of attributes and restrictions that developers need to consider when choosing which one to use for their projects.

License Scope

The EPL 2.0 is specifically designed for software projects that are part of the Eclipse ecosystem. It allows developers to create derivative works based on the original code and distribute them under the same license. On the other hand, GPLv2 is a more general-purpose license that can be used for any software project. It requires that any derivative works be distributed under the same license, ensuring that the code remains open source.

Compatibility

One key difference between EPL 2.0 and GPLv2 is their compatibility with other licenses. The EPL 2.0 is considered to be more compatible with other open source licenses, making it easier for developers to combine code from different projects. On the other hand, GPLv2 is known for its strict copyleft provisions, which can make it more challenging to integrate code from projects with different licenses.

Commercial Use

Both EPL 2.0 and GPLv2 allow for commercial use of the software, but they have different requirements when it comes to distributing the source code. The EPL 2.0 requires that any modifications to the original code be made available to the public, while GPLv2 mandates that the entire source code of the project be made available to anyone who receives the software. This can have implications for companies looking to use open source software in their products.

Patent Rights

Another important consideration when choosing between EPL 2.0 and GPLv2 is how they handle patent rights. The EPL 2.0 includes a patent license that grants users the right to use any patents that are necessary to implement the software. This can provide added protection for developers and users against patent infringement claims. On the other hand, GPLv2 does not include a specific patent license, which can leave developers vulnerable to patent disputes.

Community Support

Community support is crucial for the success of any open source project, and the choice of license can impact how developers and users engage with the software. The EPL 2.0 is backed by the Eclipse Foundation, which provides resources and support for projects using the license. On the other hand, GPLv2 is supported by the Free Software Foundation, which advocates for the principles of free software and provides guidance on using the license.

Enforcement and Compliance

Enforcement and compliance with open source licenses are important considerations for developers to ensure that their projects remain in compliance with the terms of the license. The EPL 2.0 includes provisions for resolving disputes and enforcing compliance, such as the ability to terminate the license if the terms are violated. On the other hand, GPLv2 relies on the Free Software Foundation and the open source community to enforce compliance through legal action and public pressure.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both EPL 2.0 and GPLv2 are popular choices for open source projects, each with its own set of attributes and restrictions. Developers need to carefully consider the scope, compatibility, commercial use, patent rights, community support, and enforcement and compliance aspects of each license before making a decision. Ultimately, the choice between EPL 2.0 and GPLv2 will depend on the specific needs and goals of the project, as well as the values and principles of the developers involved.