Jeff Vian wrote (about the GPL): > I think his point is that you _can_ modify the original & use your > changed code without making the changes available to others _unless_ you > distribute the changed code (then binaries and source must both be > available). > > Also, as he said, the changes only have to be freely distributed to > those who have received the binaries, not to the entire world. This may > seem a fine point but makes it possible to use the modified code within > an enterprise without giving it to the world. > > In practicality, distributing modified GPL software means the modified > code must carry the GPL license as well, but his fine point is well > taken and must be considered. Ah. A GPL misconceptions thread. If you distribute GPLed binaries with the source code (having them together on the same website is fine), then you don't have to give anything to anyone later (GPL 3a). If you non-commercially distribute unmodified binaries, you merely have to pass on the offer of source you received (GPL 3c). But if you modify GPL programs, and distribute binaries without source, then you *do* have to "give any third party ... a complete machine-readable copy of the corresponding source code". Yes, that means the entire world (GPL 3b). As far as "use in the enterprise" is concerned, it depends on who owns the computers on which the program is installed. (The "you" in the GPL refers to the licensee, which in a business is normally the business itself). The thing is, that if a company installs GPLed software on its own computers, then the company itself is the recipient, not whoever may use the computer. If you have modified a GPL program, then by default you have copyright in the changes. If you are not prepared to release those changes under the GPL, then no-one can distribute the resulting program: for company-specific variants, this may be exactly what is wanted. You yourself are quite entitled to use the resulting work. See http://www.fsf.org/licenses/gpl-faq.html#GPLRequireSourcePostedPublic for further details. James. -- James Wilkinson | I suppose if one has to go mad, slowly is the way to Exeter Devon UK | go. You wouldn't want to rush going mad, you might E-mail address: james | miss some of the good bits. @westexe.demon.co.uk | -- Paul Tomblin
