🛡️ RISK BADGE: 🔴 RESTRICTIVE (Source Available)
Executive Summary: What is it?
The Business Source License (BSL or BUSL) is a "Source Available" license, NOT an Open Source license (according to OSI definitions). It allows users to copy, modify, and redistribute the code for non-production or limited production use, but typically restricts "competing" commercial use or sets a revenue threshold (e.g., "Free for companies under $5M revenue").
Key Feature: The "Time Bomb"
A unique feature of BSL is the "Change Date." After a specific period (usually 3-4 years), the code automatically converts to a true Open Source license (like GPL or Apache).
CFO / Business Impact
- Cost: Usually $0 for internal use.
- Risk: You cannot build a SaaS product selling this software without a commercial license.
- Examples: MariaDB, Couchbase, CockroachDB, Directus, Sentry.