[Gllug] GPL & Licence Fees

[John Winters]

Ken Smith wrote:
> Any GPL experts who might have a view on this....
> 
> I came across a linux based firewall at a client that appeared to be a
> cut down Debian like configuration. The client is being charged an 
> annual licence fee for this firewall. Is this legit?
> 
> I would understand a one off fee for setting it up but an annual licence 
>  feel seems rather heavy.
> 
> Thoughts?
> 
> Ken
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> ------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 
> Any GPL experts who might have a view on this....
> 
> I came across a linux based firewall at a client that appeared to be a
> cut down Debian like configuration. The client is being charged an 
> annual licence fee for this firewall. Is this legit?

Yes.

> I would understand a one off fee for setting it up but an annual licence 
>   feel seems rather heavy.

The GPL makes no requirements about what you may charge for providing 
GPL software.  On the other hand, it also provides very little in the 
way of requirements for a user to *pay* anything either.

Without seeing the contract between vendor and purchaser in this case 
it's hard to see what is being paid for.  Is there perhaps an element of 
ongoing support?

John
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