Google's open source problem is Affero

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Orly?

So, if I understand things correctly (from the linked article and this), Affero would require Google to release their source code updates for software that runs the services they sell, not just for compiled software packages as under the current Affero?

In the case of the Linksys routers, where routers were delivered with Linux-based firmware, and thus had to provide source code, I'm on the side of the Open Source community. Linksys was distributing an OS in that case.

But here - this sets a horrible precedent for Open Source. If Google has to release source code for services as well as shipped software, couldn't that easily explode into anyone running ANY service based on open source having to publish source code? For example, if I write a mashup of a popular open-source CMS, I would have to immediately publish my source code - EVEN if all I wanted to do with it was run my own, unique, website?

This honestly could kill adoption of Open Source in any serious environments.

Posted by: lotherius   Posted on: 05/09/08 You are currently: a Guest | Members login | Terms of Use

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