GPLv3compatible

GPLv3compatible refers to software licenses that are compatible with version 3 of the GNU General Public License (GPLv3). The GPLv3 is a widely used free software license that guarantees end users the freedom to run, study, share, and modify the software. Compatibility in this context means that the terms of the other license do not restrict the user's ability to comply with the GPLv3's requirements.

For a license to be considered GPLv3 compatible, it must allow the combined work (if the licensed software is combined with GPLv3-licensed software) to be distributed under the GPLv3. This ensures that the freedoms provided by the GPLv3 are preserved. Examples of GPLv3 compatible licenses include the GNU Lesser General Public License (LGPL) version 3, the Affero General Public License (AGPL) version 3, and the Apache License version 2.0.

However, some licenses are not compatible with GPLv3. For instance, the original BSD license and the MIT license are not considered GPLv3 compatible because they allow the software to be incorporated into proprietary software, which is not permitted under the GPLv3. The Free Software Foundation (FSF), which maintains the GPL, provides a list of licenses that are considered compatible with the GPLv3.

Understanding GPLv3 compatibility is crucial for developers and organizations that wish to combine or distribute software under the GPLv3, as it ensures that the resulting work remains free and open source. It is always recommended to consult the FSF's official guidelines or seek legal advice for specific cases.