1.6.2

Licensing Issues

Test yourself

Licensing Issues with Open Source Software

Using open source software can lead to many licensing issues.

Illustrative background for Open source licensesIllustrative background for Open source licenses ?? "content

Open source licenses

  • Not all open source software can be used in exactly the same way.
  • Different licenses determine what can be done with the software's source code.
Illustrative background for LicensesIllustrative background for Licenses ?? "content

Licenses

  • A license is a set of rules which tell a consumer what they can and cannot do with a piece of software.
  • For example:
    • You can / cannot distribute this software.
    • You can / cannot resell this software.
Illustrative background for Open source programmingIllustrative background for Open source programming ?? "content

Open source programming

  • If you create a project which makes use of open source components, licensing issues can get very complicated.
  • Usually, open source licenses state that if you use the open source software in a project, then your project must also be open source licensed. This can affect your ability to sell your software.
  • Things can get very tricky when multiple components are used, all with different licenses.

Jump to other topics

1Computer Systems

1.1Systems Architecture

1.2Memory & Storage

1.3Computer Networks, Connections & Protocols

1.4Network Security

1.5Systems Software

1.6Ethical, Legal, Cultural & Environmental Concern

2Computational Thinking, Algorithms and Programming

Go student ad image

Unlock your full potential with GoStudent tutoring

  • Affordable 1:1 tutoring from the comfort of your home

  • Tutors are matched to your specific learning needs

  • 30+ school subjects covered

Book a free trial lesson