MySQL ends distribution of Enterprise source tarballs (Linux.com)

MySQL ends distribution of Enterprise source tarballs (Linux.com)

> Something to do with GPL code in Linksys routers (or similar). The
> argument was that all the code Linksys allegedly used had to be
> released to anyone who so requested it; not just to those who
> received/used the end-user product (in these cases, routers,
> network switches, or similar).

The GPL allows you to distribute source ONLY to your customers IFF you give them the source code with the binaries OR you give said customers a written offer of the source code in hardcopy for the cost of the media.

Alternatly, you have the option of distributing the source code over the network and including instructions on how get at it with the object code, but then the source code must be made "publically avaliable," in that it has to be given to anyone on request free-of-charge. This is a carrot-and-stick provision of the GPL to encourage companies to bundle the source code with the object code.

In the case of Linksys, they did not include the source code or any offer to provide the source code to their customers, so the only reasonble way for them to come into compliance with the GPL is offer the code over the network (with the added requirements then that it be made avaliable at zero-cost to the general public). Technically they'd still be in violation because their customers didn't recieve written instructions on how to retrive the code when they got the device.