Hall: IBM, Red Hat and Free Software: An old maddog’s view

> I don't use Red Hat and have no idea what its policy is in this regard, but I'd be curious to find out.

Legally, I personally think that it's extremely clear. YOU broke the terms of the contract (that is, the support contract, not the implied licence contract). As such, YOU gave Red Hat the right to walk away. Which means they have no obligation to do anything, let alone refund the money.

As has been repeatedly said, this is all about 3rd parties reselling Red Hat's work, without paying Red Hat. Regardless of the legalities (which I think are pretty clear), the politest term for this behaviour is "ripping off".

True, I'm quite happy to take advantage of other peoples' generosity. But I also try and "pay forward". And I don't get all "high and mighty" when or if they decide it's not worth the candle and no longer want to be so generous.

Cheers,
Wol