GPL 2 vs. GPLv3

Attribute	GPL 2	GPLv3
License Version	2	3
Compatibility with Apache License	No	Yes
Patent Clause	No	Yes
Compatibility with AGPL	No	Yes
Compatibility with LGPL	Yes	Yes

Introduction

The GNU General Public License (GPL) is a widely used free software license that ensures the software is free for all users to run, study, share, and modify. The GPL has gone through several versions, with GPL 2 and GPLv3 being two of the most popular ones. In this article, we will compare the attributes of GPL 2 and GPLv3 to help you understand the differences between the two licenses.

License Scope

GPL 2 is a permissive license that allows users to modify and distribute the software under the same license terms. It requires that any modifications made to the software must be released under the GPL 2 license. On the other hand, GPLv3 is more restrictive in terms of license scope. It includes provisions that address issues such as software patents, digital rights management (DRM), and compatibility with other open source licenses.

Compatibility

One of the key differences between GPL 2 and GPLv3 is their compatibility with other licenses. GPL 2 is compatible with a wide range of open source licenses, making it easier for developers to combine code from different projects. However, GPLv3 is not as compatible with other licenses due to its stricter requirements. This can make it more challenging for developers to incorporate GPLv3-licensed code into their projects.

Patent Protection

GPLv3 includes provisions that address software patents, providing additional protection for developers and users. It includes clauses that prevent patent holders from imposing restrictions on users of the software. This can help prevent patent lawsuits and ensure that the software remains free for all users. On the other hand, GPL 2 does not include specific provisions related to software patents, which can leave developers and users vulnerable to patent litigation.

Digital Rights Management

GPLv3 includes provisions that address digital rights management (DRM), ensuring that users have the freedom to modify and share the software without restrictions imposed by DRM technologies. This can help protect user freedoms and ensure that the software remains truly free. In contrast, GPL 2 does not include specific provisions related to DRM, which can leave users vulnerable to restrictions imposed by DRM technologies.

Termination

One important difference between GPL 2 and GPLv3 is how they handle termination of the license. GPL 2 includes a provision that allows the license to be terminated if the licensee violates the terms of the license. This can help ensure that users comply with the license terms and do not abuse the freedoms granted by the license. On the other hand, GPLv3 does not include a termination clause, which can make it more challenging to enforce the license terms in case of violations.

Enforcement

GPLv3 includes provisions that make it easier to enforce the license terms and protect the freedoms granted by the license. It includes clauses that allow the Free Software Foundation (FSF) to take legal action against violators of the license. This can help ensure that the software remains free for all users and prevent abuse of the license terms. In contrast, GPL 2 does not include specific provisions related to enforcement, which can make it more challenging to protect the freedoms granted by the license.

Conclusion

In conclusion, GPL 2 and GPLv3 are two popular versions of the GNU General Public License that have different attributes and provisions. GPL 2 is a permissive license that is compatible with a wide range of open source licenses, while GPLv3 is more restrictive and includes provisions related to software patents, DRM, and enforcement. Understanding the differences between GPL 2 and GPLv3 can help developers choose the right license for their projects and ensure that the software remains free for all users.