The Open Source Definition

This chapter discusses the open source definition, which doesn't just mean access to the source code, but also allows modifications and derived works to be distributed under the same terms, as the license of the original software.

Abstract

This chapter discusses the open source definition. Open source doesn't just mean access to the source code. The distribution terms of open-source software must comply with the following criteria: free redistribution, source code, derived works, integrity of the author's source code, no discrimination against a person or a group, no discrimination against fields of endeavor, distribution of license, license must Nnt be specific to a product, license must not restrict other software, and the license must be technology-neutral. According to free distribution, the license does not restrict any party from selling, or giving away the software as a component of an aggregate software distribution containing programs from several different sources. The program must include source code, and must allow distribution in source code in a compiled form. The license must allow modifications and derived works, and must allow them to be distributed under the same terms, as the license of the original software. The license may restrict the source-code from being distributed in modified form. The rights attached to the program must apply to all those, to whom the program is redistributed without the need for execution of an additional license by those parties.