Question

Answer

1. Can I use GPL software commercially without releasing my own code?

Yes — but it depends. If you distribute a combined work containing GPL-licensed parts to third parties, you are required to release the combined work under the GPL. If your use is only internal (not distributed), the requirement is looser. Always check which version of the GPL and how you're integrating.

2. What is the difference between GPL and permissive open source licenses (MIT, Apache, BSD)?

Permissive licenses allow fewer restrictions — you can combine with proprietary code, and don’t need to disclose your source in many cases. GPL is stricter (copyleft): derivatives or redistributed combined works must also be GPL-licensed. That can affect how you design software and business models.

3. Do I have to “pay” for GPL-licensed software?

Not in license fees. GPL lets you use, modify, distribute, and sell the software. But you still may have costs of integration, support, hosting, maintenance, training, etc. Also, commercial “GPL services” may offer premium versions or support contracts.

4. What are license compatibility concerns?

Some open source licenses conflict with each other. For example, combining code under the LGPL or MIT license with GPL code may be fine, but mixing code under some proprietary licenses or restrictive licenses might violate the GPL. Always verify compatibility when integrating multiple OSS components.

5. How do I ensure an open source project is safe to use?

Look for project activity (frequent commits), issue resolution, security disclosures, a large or active contributor base, and documentation. Also, check whether dependencies are up to date and whether the licensing is clean.

6. Will using GPL-licensed code force me to open-source my whole product?

Only if you distribute a derivative or combined work that includes GPL code. If you solely use GPL code as separate processes, or invoke GPL software externally (via APIs, services), sometimes you can avoid the “viral” obligations. Legal advice helps.

7. What are “dual licensing” or “open core” models?

Dual-licensing is when the same software is distributed under two licenses (e.g, GPL for community use, and a commercial proprietary license for customers who don’t want GPL obligations). Open core means base functionality is open source; premium features or services are proprietary. These models provide possible revenue while keeping lower cost/free tiers.

8. Are there hidden costs of open source?

Yes. These include costs for training, adapting or customizing code, migrating legacy systems, legal compliance, ensuring security, and possibly scaling infrastructure. But often these costs are lower overall than proprietary alternatives when managed well.

9. How do I choose between GPL version 2 vs GPL version 3?

GPLv3 includes stronger protections around patents, anti-tivoization, and offers clearer language in some areas. GPLv2 is more widely used historically. Consider which version fits your legal, patent, and distribution concerns.

10. Can I combine GPL-licensed code with code under a permissive license?

Generally, yes, but the resulting combined work may need to respect the GPL’s requirements. For example, if a permissively licensed library is included in a project that is distributed under GPL, the whole distribution may have to be under GPL. Always read the licenses and, if unsure, consult legal counsel.

11. Is it safe to rely on community support instead of paying for commercial support?

It can be — for many mature, well-maintained open source projects, community support is excellent. But for mission-critical systems, you might want paid support or SLA guarantees. Ensuring backups, redundancy, and internal expertise helps reduce risks.

12. How do I handle updates and security patches for GPL/open source components?

Monitor upstream project releases, subscribe to relevant notifications, test in staging environments, and maintain internal policies for patching. Also, ensure dependencies are well-tracked and that you aren’t relying on abandoned projects.

13. If I distribute software under GPL, do I lose revenue potential?

Not necessarily. Many companies use GPL in part of their stack, or for base code, and monetize via services, support, hosting, proprietary add-ons, or offering hosted versions of software. GPL doesn’t preclude revenue — just imposes certain obligations when distributing.

14. What governance or legal mechanisms should U.S. companies put in place?

Establish open source usage policies, license review process, compliance tracking, contributor license agreements (if you accept external contributions), legal counsel or license auditing, and internal training on license obligations.

15. How can startups leverage GPL/open source while also protecting IP and competitive edge?

Startups often use open source for infrastructure and non-core components; they carefully choose which parts of their product are proprietary. Use of dual-licensing or keeping core algorithms or differentiators closed (if needed), or offering hosted services rather than distributing code, are common strategies. Also, protecting IP via patents, trade secrets, or other legal tools as needed.