When using open-source software, it’s important to understand the licensing rules. The AGPLv3 (Affero General Public License version 3) has specific guidelines that businesses must follow. Unlike simpler licenses like MIT or Apache, AGPLv3 is stricter, especially for software used over a network. This post explains what AGPLv3 commercial use. We’ll look at how businesses must comply with the rules and how to avoid mistakes. By the end, you’ll have a good understanding of how to use AGPLv3 software in your business.
What Is AGPLv3?
AGPLv3 is a license for open-source software. The Free Software Foundation (FSF) developed it. The license is meant to close a gap in the GPLv3. It focuses on software used over a network, even if it’s not shared directly with users. If you use AGPLv3 software to offer a service, you must share any changes you make to it.
Key Features of AGPLv3
- Copyleft: If you modify or share AGPLv3 software, you must make the source code available to others.
- Network Use: AGPLv3 requires you to share the code even if you don’t distribute the software. If you use it in a web service, you still need to make the code available.
- Compatibility: AGPLv3 works with GPLv3 but not with licenses like MIT or BSD. AGPLv3 is stricter.
What AGPLv3 Means for Commercial Use
If you’re using or selling AGPLv3 software, here’s what you need to know.
- Modified Software Must Be Shared
If you change AGPLv3 software, you must share the modified code. This applies even if you don’t give the software away. If you run a service (like a SaaS app), users have the right to access the source code. - Provide Source Code on Request
If you run AGPLv3 software on a server, users can ask for the source code. You must share it, even if the software isn’t distributed. - No Proprietary Lock-In
AGPLv3 stops companies from taking the software and making it private. If you use AGPLv3 software in a SaaS product, your users can access the source code, even if you make changes.
Real-World Examples of AGPLv3 in Commercial Use
- SaaS Application:
If you offer a SaaS app with AGPLv3 software, you must give users the code. This includes any changes you made to the software. - Selling AGPLv3 Software:
If you sell a product with AGPLv3 software, you must give the source code to the buyers. You must also explain their right to modify and share the code. - Using AGPLv3 Internally:
If you only use AGPLv3 software inside your company and don’t share it, you don’t need to release the code. But if you make it available online, you must follow AGPLv3.
How to Comply with AGPLv3
Here’s how to stay on the right side of the AGPLv3 rules:
- Understand the License
Before using AGPLv3 software, read the full license. Pay attention to the rules about sharing the code and using it over a network. - Share the Source Code
If required, make the source code available. You can do this through a public code repository (like GitHub) or by sending it to users upon request. - Get Legal Advice
It’s a good idea to have a legal expert review your use of AGPLv3 software, especially if you plan to sell or offer it as a service. - Contribute to the Community
While not required, consider contributing improvements you make to AGPLv3 software back to the open-source community.
Benefits of AGPLv3 for Commercial Projects
There are several reasons why businesses may choose AGPLv3 software, despite the strict rules.
- Fosters Collaboration
AGPLv3 encourages sharing and improving software, leading to better collaboration with other developers. - Prevents Proprietary Software
The license ensures that the software stays open. No company can take AGPLv3 software, make changes, and then close it off from others. - Increased Security
Open-source software often benefits from many developers who help find and fix security issues faster.
Challenges of AGPLv3 for Commercial Use
However, AGPLv3 does come with challenges:
- Complex Compliance
Following the rules can be tricky. Many businesses don’t fully understand when they need to share the code. - Risk of Exposing Code
If you modify AGPLv3 software, you might have to share your code. This could expose sensitive or proprietary information. - Conflicts with Business Goals
Some businesses may not want to share their code, especially if they want to keep their software private.
Conclusion
AGPLv3 is a strong license that helps keep software open and free. If you use AGPLv3 software in your business, you must follow its rules, such as sharing your source code. However, if you embrace the open-source philosophy, AGPLv3 can be a good choice for you.
FAQs About AGPLv3 Commercial Use
What happens if I don’t comply with AGPLv3?
You may face legal action and harm your reputation in the open-source community.
Can I charge for AGPLv3 software?
Yes, but you must still follow the license rules and share the source code.
Do I have to release my modifications if I use AGPLv3 software internally?
No, unless the software is exposed to external users (like through a web service).
Can I mix AGPLv3 software with proprietary software?
It’s difficult. Any software combined with AGPLv3 may also need to be released under AGPLv3.
Can I avoid sharing the source code for my website?
No. If you use AGPLv3 software on your website, you must share the source code.
Can I pay to avoid AGPLv3 restrictions?
No. You cannot pay to get around AGPLv3. You must follow the rules.
How does AGPLv3 differ from GPLv3?
AGPLv3 requires you to share code if the software is used over a network, while GPLv3 only requires sharing when the software is distributed.
