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GNU GPL v3

The GPL v3 is a "Copyleft" license. It guarantees freedom for the end-user, not the developer. If you distribute software that links to GPL code, your entire application must also be released as open source under GPL.

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🛡️ RISK BADGE: 🟠 HIGH (For Distribution)

Executive Summary: What is it?

The GPL v3 is a "Copyleft" license. It guarantees freedom for the end-user, not the developer. If you distribute software that links to GPL code, your entire application must also be released as open source under GPL.

CFO / Business Impact: What does it cost/risk?

Viral Asset Risk. Do not use GPL libraries in software you intend to sell or distribute as a closed-source binary. It can force you to release your proprietary source code. Exception: Safe for internal tools that are never distributed outside the company.

Technical Reality: How does it work?

The "Viral" effect triggers on Distribution. If you run it on a server (SaaS) and users access it via web, you generally do NOT have to share code (see AGPL for the exception).

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