GPLLGPLbased

GPLLGPLbased is an informal term used to describe software projects or distributions that combine code under the GNU General Public License (GPL) with code under the GNU Lesser General Public License (LGPL). It is not a formal license name but a convenient label for situations in which both licenses appear in a single codebase or product.

The GPL and the LGPL are related copyleft licenses published by the Free Software Foundation. The GPL enforces a strong copyleft that generally requires derivative and combined works to be distributed under the GPL. The LGPL was developed to allow libraries to be linked by non-GPL software while still protecting the library itself; it imposes weaker copyleft conditions focused on the library and its modifications.

When GPL and LGPL components are combined, the interaction of their terms affects distribution and licensing obligations. In practice, code under the LGPL can often be linked with GPL code, but the combined distributed work will be subject to the GPL’s requirements. The details depend on how components are combined (e.g., dynamic vs. static linking) and on the specific license versions involved.

Projects described as GPLLGPLbased commonly arise from reuse of LGPL libraries in GPL applications, mixed-dependency ecosystems, or dual-licensed components. Compliance typically requires clear license notices, provision of source code or offer to provide it, and, where applicable, means to relink with modified LGPL libraries. Because license interactions can be complex and fact-specific, projects often seek legal guidance to ensure proper compliance and to decide on licensing strategy.