Here's an interesting response from mysql.com sales. Frankly, I don't see how using it on multiple internal servers violates the GPL?!?:
<btw, forgive me if this comes through as a repost later. I'm still getting used to having multiple email addrs in this client :)> Hi John, Thank you for your interest in MySQL. My answers below. > -----Original Message----- > From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] > [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] > Sent: Wednesday, October 08, 2003 7:50 AM > To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] > Subject: MySQL Licensing Question, US, -unknown- > > > The following form was submitted via MySQL.com feedback engine: > > Name: John Wells > > Email address: [EMAIL PROTECTED] > > Type of interest: for company use > > Country: US > > Support contract: no > > Enter Your Questions, Comments, Feedback or Your Message here: > > I'm a little confused on the meaning of "distributing either externally or internally" on the license page. If we develop an application that uses MySql as the backend database and > use in on our > internal LAN, do we need to license it commmercially? Internal distribution applies to internally distributing/installing more than one application. If you plan to use one installation of MySQL it would not be considered distribution and you could use if for free with your "internally built application." > How would this > be in violation of the GPL? If your application (internal or external) is licensed under the terms of the GPL, you are allowed to distribute MySQL, also under the GPL, for free. What do you mean, exactly, > by internal > distribution? > > Also, if we write an application that expects MySql (like > a web app), > but we don't package the database with the application > and tell the > customer that they must download and install it, is this > violation of > the GPL? Again, if your application is licensed under the terms of the GPL you can use MySQL for free. If your application is not licensed under the terms of the GPL, commercial non-GPL licenses are necessary. You will need to purchase licenses under this scenario (unless you go GPL), please review our licensing examples, http://www.mysql.com/products/licensing-examples.html. How are you planning to use MySQL? Mr. Matt Fredrickson, Sales Executive MySQL, Inc. - www.mysql.com Office: +1 425 390 0154 Fax: +1 425 663 2001 MySQL Featured in the Wall Street Journal: http://webreprints.djreprints.com/785490482991.html ---------------------------(end of broadcast)--------------------------- TIP 8: explain analyze is your friend