GNU General Public License v3.0

A copyleft license that guarantees end users the freedom to run, study, share, and modify the software while requiring derivative works to use the same license.

Key Terms
Understanding the main components of this license

Copyleft

Derivative works must be licensed under the same GPL license.

Source Code

Source code must be made available when distributing the software.

Freedom to Use

Allows use, modification, and distribution of the software.

Commercial Use

This software and derivatives may be used for commercial purposes.

Limitations
Important limitations and restrictions to note
  • No Liability
  • No Warranty
  • Derivative Licensing
Compatible With
Other licenses that are compatible with this one
GPL v3 only
AGPL
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this license

Is GNU GPL free for commercial use?

Yes, the GNU GPL allows commercial use, but derivative works must also be licensed under the GPL.

What is the GNU General Public License?

The GNU General Public License is a free software license that ensures users can run, modify, and distribute software while maintaining the same license for derivatives.

What is the difference between MIT and GNU GPL Licence?

The MIT License is permissive and allows proprietary use, while the GPL enforces copyleft, requiring derivatives to remain open source.

What is an example of a GNU GPL?

Linux is a prominent example of software distributed under the GNU GPL.

SPDX IdentifierGPL-3.0
OSI ApprovedYes
Copylefttrue
LinkingPermitted