Questions about licenses

[Roberto A. Foglietta]

Denys Vlasenko wrote:
> On Saturday 01 December 2007 19:46, Lu Zhou wrote:
>> Hi, Denis Vlasenko,
>>
>> 1, Do I have to open my source codes for a commercial product if my file
>> system includes busybox? 2, Actually I want to keep my source codes
>> private. What options do I have? 3, I subscribed Timesys' BSP that includes
>> Busybox. Is that OK that I use it in my commercial product?
> 
> I am not a lawyer, and my answer is not authoritative.
> 
> My understanding is that if you use busybox in your device,
> you have to provide users with means to build the same busybox
> from source.

  I do not think so. Building the same busybox from sources would be 
required if GPLv3 has been choosen. In this case distribuitor could 
choose GPLv2 and release everything under v2 conditions which requires 
to deliver at quasi-zero costs the source code. You would not release 
your toolchain and/or cross compiling enviroment.

  Putting onto the same media (ROM, FLASH, DVD) binary which has been 
compiled from GPLed source code and from propretary does not propagate 
licences. GPL terms propagations happens only when source code mix or 
static compilation happen.

  In my opinion if you have right to do something you are right to do 
that. If the device could be easily modified by the user and it could be 
easy for technical assistance verify any modifications in order to decay 
the guarantee so you can release all the source and the building 
environments. Allowing people hacking your device you offer a plus in 
value and the possibility a community develop around your product.

  Best regards,
Roberto