What are copyleft licenses and how do they work?

What are copyleft licenses and how do they work?

Copyleft licenses are a type of open-source license that allows users to freely use, modify, and distribute software, but with the condition that any derivative works must also be distributed under the same license. This ensures that the freedoms granted by the original work are preserved in all copies and modifications.

Can you give me an example of a copyleft license?

A well-known example of a copyleft license is the GNU General Public License (GPL). It allows users to modify and share software, but requires that any distributed modifications also be licensed under the GPL.

What are the benefits of using copyleft licenses?

The benefits include promoting collaboration, ensuring that software remains free for all users, and protecting the rights of developers to share their work.

Are there any drawbacks to copyleft licenses?

Yes, some drawbacks include potential restrictions on commercial use and the complexity of compliance for businesses that want to use copyleft-licensed software.