The GNU General Public License (GPL) Question.

[citricguy]

Not quite sure where I should post this because it has nothing to do with vBulletin. I am aware that vBullitin is NOT free software, and has nothing to do with the GNU/GPL license.

Ok, are you allowed to charge for access to your website if some of the content is hosted using GPL protected software? For instance, using a GPL protected content management system within a subscription website. The site is not selling code and not modifying code at all, just charging access to the overall website.

I read over the GPL agreement and didn't see anything condemning but just wanted to check with anyone here familiar with the license.

This post has absolutely nothing to do with vBulletin

[Andreas]

I don't think this should be a problem.
You can do whatever you want with GPL software, however derived software must be GPL again.
And this can cause problems, for example Netgear (and other ADSL router manufacturers) are/have been using Netfilter-code in their Firmware.
But if you are just using a GPL CMS this should not affect you.

[citricguy]

Greatly appriciated KirbyDE. I haven't heard about the Netgear issue untill just now. Interesting stuff though, I read a little bit more on the topic here. http://netscape.com.com/Defender+of+...3-5625667.html

[calorie]

Originally Posted by KirbyDE

I don't think this should be a problem.
You can do whatever you want with GPL software, however derived software must be GPL again.

Agreed, if you keep the copyright in the code.
Plus, you currently do not have to redistribute.
And, you currently do not have to link back.

phpBB has a decent GNU GPL article here.

Just to add to the topic...

- definition of free software

http://www.gnu.org/philosophy/free-sw.html

- selling GNU GPL software

http://www.gnu.org/licenses/gpl-faq....eGPLAllowMoney
http://www.gnu.org/licenses/gpl-faq....lowDownloadFee
http://www.gnu.org/licenses/gpl-faq....PLCommercially
http://www.gnu.org/philosophy/selling.html

- obtaining GNU GPL software

http://www.gnu.org/licenses/gpl-faq....anIDemandACopy
http://www.gnu.org/licenses/gpl-faq....bilityToPublic
http://www.gnu.org/licenses/gpl-faq....cePostedPublic
http://www.gnu.org/licenses/gpl-faq.html#UnreleasedMods