Open Source Software Licensing Challenges: A Critical Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56861/inheriten.v1i1.14Keywords:
open-source software; license, critical review.Abstract
This paper critically reviews the multifaceted challenges inherent in open-source software licensing, analyzing their implications for intellectual property, compliance, and strategic adoption. It delves into the complexities of license enforceability, compatibility issues between various open-source licenses, and the economic considerations for businesses leveraging open-source components. The review also addresses the critical aspects of intellectual property protection, recognizing that IP theft remains a substantial concern for software enterprises. The paper further explores the impact of varying international legal frameworks on open-source licensing and discusses the strategic considerations companies must undertake to manage their software intellectual property effectively. This comprehensive analysis aims to provide a robust understanding of the current landscape of open-source software licensing, highlighting areas for future research and development in this dynamic field. This includes exploring how open-source strategies can mitigate prevalent issues such as software piracy, which continues to pose significant threats to intellectual property rights and revenue streams globally. This is particularly relevant given that the design, manufacture, distribution, and sale of software constitute a rapidly growing and lucrative global industry, wherein intellectual property rights are typically vital to competitive advantage and company success.
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