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SSPL (Server Side Public License)

The Server Side Public License (SSPL) is not an official Open Source license. Created by MongoDB, it allows you to use the software freely, but forbids you from offering it as a "Managed Service" (e.g., you cannot launch "MyHostedMongoDB" and charge for it).

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🛡️ RISK BADGE: 🔒 VENDOR LOCK-IN

Executive Summary: What is it?

The Server Side Public License (SSPL) is not an official Open Source license. Created by MongoDB, it allows you to use the software freely, but forbids you from offering it as a "Managed Service" (e.g., you cannot launch "MyHostedMongoDB" and charge for it).

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

Competition Blocker. Safe for internal use. Safe for building apps on top of it. Unsafe if your business model involves hosting infrastructure for others. Designed to force you to pay the vendor (e.g., MongoDB, Elastic) for enterprise features.

Technical Reality: How does it work?

Used by MongoDB, Elasticsearch, and Graylog. You will likely need to pay for their official Cloud offering if you want Managed SaaS.

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