2.4 Licensing
Another goal of OpenBSD is to keep all of the source code free. To achieve this goal, as much software as possible that is included with OpenBSD is covered by the Berkeley Copyright.3 This also means that almost all software that is included with OpenBSD must be at least as free as the Berkeley copyright. Recently, the entire OpenBSD source code and
2.5. The Feel of OpenBSD 13
ports tree went through a massive license audit. This led to the change of many licenses by the respective code’s authors and, in some drastic cases, the removal of code from OpenBSD source and ports.4 In most situations it suffices for the authors of the software to be contacted to clarify their licenses. It is uncommon for software to be removed or replaced due to licensing issues.
As a consequence, OpenBSD can be used in commercial settings safely and with little fear of licensing issues. No fees—only the respect of the copyright and its statement—is required to use OpenBSD in a commercial product. In fact, there are numerous commercial products based on OpenBSD underpinnings.