GPL component in an online SAAS app? [closed]

Question

I have a web based application that I charge monthly to businesses that allow them to build a website. I would like to use a GPL(version 2) component (PLUpload, which is a flash component) in my site builder that allows my clients to upload files. I don't mind sharing any changes I make to PLUpload, but I can't GPL my entire website code.

Can I use this in my website without my entire web application being GPL?

Answer 1

Typically, yes. The GPL primarily limits distribution, not use. So as long as you aren't distributing your website (like selling all of the code in a zip file for others to install), you don't need to release the rest of your website under GPL. In fact, even if you make changes to the component and don't distribute the new component, then you don't need to release the source code changes you've made either.

I should add that the GNU has a separate license for website use called the AGPL http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Affero_General_Public_License which has different requirements in regards to website use of AGPL code. If the code falls under this, I don't know that license well enough with respect to your question (besides it being controversial).

I don't know PLUpload, what it does, etc, but the above is assuming that it is server side used code only and it isn't a flash component, etc. that is being sent to the browser... which there has been a lot of debate about as well, similar to using GPL JavaScript as part of website code base, what you're required to grant people with respect to your code, what "component" sent to a browser constitutes a "distribution" (a website? a single http response? etc).

I'm not an attorney nor is this legal advise (yada yada). If this really concerns you, I'd recommend hiring one.