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Old 03-30-2005, 10:11 AM   #1
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Software Licenses


I read the definition of open source at opensource.org but found it to be
very similar to FSF but without so much detail - it seems that both
organisations operate on the same kind of principles? Could anyone explain the difference?

Also in the open source definition referring to author integrity, it states:

'The license may restrict source-code from being distributed in modified
form only if the license allows the distribution of "patch files" with the
source code for the purpose of modifying the program at build time. The
license must explicitly permit distribution of software built from modified
source code. The license may require derived works to carry a different name or version number from the original software.'

I don't understand the reference to patch files. Also, does this statement
mean that you are not necessarily required to name your modification
allowing people to differentiate between yours and the original author?

Thanks
 
Old 03-30-2005, 10:17 AM   #2
oneandoneis2
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Open source = you can look at the source code

Free = you can look at the source, modify it, give it to others, fork it, etc etc.

Just because something is open, doesn't mean you can do as you wish with it. Free software is open, open software isn't necessarily free
 
Old 03-30-2005, 10:31 AM   #3
vharishankar
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Read this interesting article for some of the fundamental differences between the two "factions" of the community:
http://gnu.gnusoft.net/philosophy/fr...r-freedom.html

This has been discussed here:
http://www.linuxquestions.org/questi...hreadid=297119
 
  


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