The GPL (General Public License), also known as GNU GPL, is the predominant free software license. Conceived by Richard Stallman for the GNU Project (Free Software Foundation), it enables unrestricted usage, modification, and redistribution of software by any individual. WordPress is among the platforms governed by the GPL license, affirming its status as open-source software accessible for use, adaptation, and expansion by all.
At its core, GPL upholds fundamental principles embraced by the project:
- Accessibility for all to download and operate the software.
- Flexibility allowing modification and editing by users.
- Freedom to redistribute free copies of the software.
- Authorization to distribute modified versions of the software.
WordPress and GPL
As previously mentioned, WordPress greatly leverages the GPL license, a primary factor contributing to its status as the leading CMS software today.
The GPL ensures public access to all WordPress files, facilitating global developer engagement, code study, modification, and enhancement.
A robust and inclusive community has burgeoned around WordPress, igniting widespread interest and adoption of the platform.
With over 36% of global websites employing WordPress as their CMS, its unprecedented popularity owes much to the GPL.
Furthermore, WordPress boasts the largest market share among CMS platforms, exceeding 70%.
Despite other CMS platforms emerging contemporaneously with WordPress, their non-GPL status impeded their growth, allowing WordPress to soar in usage and prominence.
Matt Mullenweg, WordPress’s co-founder, staunchly champions the GPL, likening it to a “Bill of Rights” essential for safeguarding core freedoms.
Matt fervently advocates releasing software under the GPL, underscoring its pivotal role in fostering innovation and community collaboration.
Many non-GPL competitors of WordPress have faltered over time, unable to sustain user engagement. Conversely, WordPress thrived, buoyed by the GPL’s facilitation of continuous improvement by developers.
This article elucidates the significance of the GPL and its profound impact on WordPress.
The GPL stands as a remarkable software license profoundly benefiting WordPress, propelling it to become the preeminent CMS platform globally, embraced by millions of users.
FAQ : GPL (General Public License)
1. What is copyleft?
Copyright, a legal concept, inherently restricts the utilization, alteration, and dissemination of creative works without explicit authorization from the owner. However, when an author opts for a copyleft license, they assert copyright ownership over the work while concurrently granting others the liberty to utilize, modify, and distribute the work, provided they uphold reciprocity obligations.
In practical terms, this signifies that any software developed using a GPL-based framework necessitates release as open-source. Incorporating any component governed by GPL mandates the disclosure of the full source code, alongside relinquishing all rights to modify and distribute the entirety of the codebase.
2. Can you sell GPL Products?
Indeed, the GPL license permits the sale of both original and modified products. However, it’s crucial to clarify that “free software” in this context pertains to freedom of usage rather than price. Richard Stallman aptly distinguishes “free software” as “free as in ‘free speech,’ not as in ‘free beer’.” In essence, while users have the liberty to buy and sell GPL products, the term “free” emphasizes the freedom to utilize, modify, and distribute the software, rather than indicating zero cost.
3. Is GPL safe?
Yes, GPL is indeed safe. The GPL license primarily governs the usage and distribution of software and is not directly related to the source code itself. As a result, the safety of GPL-licensed software is not contingent on the license but rather on the adherence to its terms and conditions regarding usage and distribution.
4. Does the GPL license require the author to release the modified source code?
Under the GPL License, the obligation to release modified source code arises only when you distribute the modified program to others. If you modify a program’s code solely for personal use and do not distribute it to others, there is no requirement to release the modified source code. However, once you decide to distribute the modified program, you must then comply with the GPL’s requirement to release the corresponding source code along with it.
5. What is the difference between GPLv2 & GPLv3?
There has always been some confusion surrounding the disparities between GPLv2 and GPLv3. The Free Software Foundation (FSF) sought to address this by enhancing clarity in GPLv3 regarding when the reciprocity obligation is triggered. Additionally, the FSF introduced a new GPL license, the Affero license, to tackle the “ASP loophole.”
Furthermore, the FSF aimed to bolster the compatibility of GPLv3 with other licenses. For two codes to be combined into a larger work, both applications must permit it. If these rights are granted by both licenses, they are deemed compatible. By enhancing GPLv3’s compatibility, the FSF expanded development possibilities.
Another distinction lies in GPLv3’s global focus. The language in GPLv3 was revised to ensure international laws interpret it as intended by the FSF, unlike the more US-centric language used in GPLv2. GPLv3 also allows developers to incorporate local disclaimers, further facilitating its adoption outside the US.
GPL license terms and conditions?
The GPL prohibits claiming patents or copyright on the product. Additionally, it mandates the display of a copyright notice, a disclaimer of warranty, intact GPL notices, and a copy of the GPL itself. Altering the license or appending additional terms and conditions is not permitted.
Under the GPL, you are obligated to release the source code and grant all rights to modify and distribute the entire codebase.
However, it’s important to note that the information provided here is not legal advice; it is presented on an as-is basis.