binaryonly

Binaryonly, or binary-only distribution, describes software that is released exclusively as compiled binaries with no accompanying source code. In such releases, users receive executable or library files that have been built from source, but the original source is not provided by the distributor.

This practice is common for proprietary software and firmware where the vendor seeks to protect intellectual property, reduce build times, or ensure platform-specific performance. It can also arise when the supplier wants to avoid dependencies or licensing terms that apply to redistribution of source code.

Binary-only releases contrast with open source distributions that provide source code or with distributions that include both binaries and the corresponding source. Legal and licensing considerations are central; copyleft licenses such as the GPL commonly require offering access to the source upon redistribution, while permissive licenses may allow binary-only redistribution under certain conditions.

Security and maintenance implications include reduced ability to audit code, reproduce builds, or apply patches. Reproducible builds and supply-chain verification are more challenging with binary-only components; users may rely on vendor updates and cryptographic signing to verify integrity and authenticity.

Common contexts include proprietary firmware in hardware devices, closed-source binary drivers, and prebuilt libraries offered by software vendors. Some platforms and communities advocate for greater transparency and security by discouraging or restricting binary-only components.

See also: source code, open source software, firmware, binary blob, copyleft licenses.