33
submitted 17 hours ago by time2lose@lemmy.world to c/linux@lemmy.world
you are viewing a single comment's thread
view the rest of the comments
[-] boonhet@sopuli.xyz 2 points 6 hours ago

I like MIT for libraries, not a huge fan of it for core OS utilities because it just means they'll be free to lock up features behind Ubuntu Pro or whatever it's called. Eugh.

[-] thingsiplay@lemmy.ml 5 points 6 hours ago

I'm not sure what you mean by that. They can lock things up behind paywall, if the license is GPL too. As long as any source code of it is online available. Which it is for the Rust Utils, that's not in Canonicals hand. And if Canonical does make changes to their own version, then these are no longer compatible software with the GNU Utils. But the point is being compatible.

So I don't get the fear here.

[-] boonhet@sopuli.xyz 4 points 5 hours ago

GPL doesn't allow for closed source forks. MIT does. You can add extra features without removing compatibility, by adding new flags, etc. Though I do struggle to come up with what premium features cp, mv and rm in particular could be expanded with.

[-] thingsiplay@lemmy.ml 2 points 5 hours ago

I don't think that is a problem. As long as the GNU tools behave as the original ones, that's okay. If someone wants to target Ubuntu extensions of the tools, they can. Also when did any Linux distribution anytime locked up their own version of MIT tools without sharing the source code?

It just feels like people are making up issues that aren't.

[-] boonhet@sopuli.xyz 1 points 4 hours ago

Also when did any Linux distribution anytime locked up their own version of MIT tools without sharing the source code?

I mean RHEL has been kinda doing it with GPL for a few years. They share the code with you if you have a subscription, since they have to, but if you share it with anyone, they'll void your subscription contract. With MIT you can skip that scheme altogether and just make version closed source.

Like... Why else would they use MIT here? They could have just used GPL for the Rust coreutils.

[-] thingsiplay@lemmy.ml 1 points 3 hours ago

Because GPL is not compatible with everything.

[-] boonhet@sopuli.xyz 1 points 3 hours ago

GPL for separate tools is compatible with everything. It only becomes an issue if you're shipping a custom version of a GPL tool.

[-] auzy1@lemmy.world 1 points 4 hours ago

If they tried that, other distro's can also fork it and add those exact features in for free..

this post was submitted on 16 Sep 2026
33 points (100.0% liked)

Linux

19115 readers
1077 users here now

Welcome to c/linux!

Welcome to our thriving Linux community! Whether you're a seasoned Linux enthusiast or just starting your journey, we're excited to have you here. Explore, learn, and collaborate with like-minded individuals who share a passion for open-source software and the endless possibilities it offers. Together, let's dive into the world of Linux and embrace the power of freedom, customization, and innovation. Enjoy your stay and feel free to join the vibrant discussions that await you!

Rules:

  1. Stay on topic: Posts and discussions should be related to Linux, open source software, and related technologies.

  2. Be respectful: Treat fellow community members with respect and courtesy.

  3. Quality over quantity: Share informative and thought-provoking content.

  4. No spam or self-promotion: Avoid excessive self-promotion or spamming.

  5. No NSFW adult content

  6. Follow general lemmy guidelines.

founded 3 years ago
MODERATORS