OpenSolaris Binary License

FAQ: OpenSolaris Binary Licensing

• What is the OpenSolaris Binary License?
• Can I redistribute these binaries?
• What is released under/covered by this license?
• Why isn't source for these components available?
• What is the significance of the files found in the binary tarballs?

What is the OpenSolaris Binary License?

A binary code license for specific binaries needed for the OpenSolaris project. The license provides the right to redistribute these binaries under certain circumstances.

Can I redistribute these binaries?

Yes, if they are bundled with the OpenSolaris code or binaries built from the OpenSolaris code as set out in the binary license. You can not redistribute the binaries separately from the OpenSolaris code/binaries.

What is released under/covered by this license?

Binaries built from proprietary source or from source that is covered by multiple licenses. Some binaries represent source that can not or is not ready to be released as open source (ex. ON Binary-Only Components and the DevPro SCCS and make binaries). Some binaries are provided as a convenience when source is also available (ex., ON-Specific Build Tools and ON Blindingly Fast Update (BFU) Archives).

Why isn't source for these components available?

In some cases associated source is available as noted above. Details are not provided if there are no current plans to release source. The goal of the OpenSolaris project is to make as much of the source for the Solaris OS available as possible. If and when possible, binary-only components will be made available in source form.

What is the significance of the files found in the binary tarballs?

There are three files that accompany binaries licensed using the OpenSolaris Binary License:

• BINARYLICENSE.name.txt: Text file containing the full text of the OpenSolaris Binary License. Note that 'name' in the file name denotes the tarball or technology covered by the license.
• README.name.arch: Text file containing a list of the tarball contents for the specified tarball/technology on the specified architecture.
• THIRDPARTYLICENSE.name: Text file containing a list of any third-party licenses that cover pieces of the specified tarball contents.
  These files are usually found in the topmost directory when the tarball is installed.

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