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Choose an open-source license by deciding what others may do with your code, whether distributed modifications must remain under the same terms, how your software is delivered, and what licenses already cover the code. MIT and Apache-2.0 favor broad reuse; GPLv3 requires stronger reciprocity for covered distributions; AGPLv3 adds a provision for modified software used to provide a network service. LGPL and MPL 2.0 offer narrower, library- or file-focused forms of reciprocity.
There is no universally best license. The Open Source Initiative (OSI) says the right choice depends on a community’s objectives and ethos. This guide gives a practical framework, but a project-specific conclusion requires reviewing ownership, dependencies, exact license versions, distribution plans, and applicable law.
How do I choose an open-source license for my project?
Start with these decisions, in order:
- Define the work. Decide whether you are licensing software, documentation, artwork, or another creative work. The GNU Project notes that software-license recommendations are not automatically suitable for works of art or expression; documentation may need a separate approach. See GNU’s license recommendations.
- Confirm authority. Establish who owns the code and whether contributors, employers, contractors, or earlier projects impose terms. You cannot grant permissions that you do not control.
- Choose the reuse boundary. Decide whether companies may include your code in proprietary products and whether improvements distributed to users must remain under the same license.
- Account for delivery. If modified software will provide a public service over a network, evaluate AGPL provisions rather than assuming a traditional distribution model.
- Check patent language. If an express contributor patent grant matters, compare licenses that include one in their text.
- Audit every dependency and copied file. Compatibility depends on the exact license and version, not merely on a familiar name.
The GNU Project summarizes its approach this way: “We recommend different licenses for different projects, depending mostly on the software’s purpose.” Its general recommendation is the most recent GPL for many programs, while recognizing that a project’s purpose can justify another choice.
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1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsUse the complete license text and its application instructions. Releasing under an OSI-approved license does not require submitting your project to OSI for approval; the OSI explains both points in its FAQ.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
What is the project actually licensing?
Separate software from documentation and media
Do not apply one license automatically to every file in a repository. Source code, manuals, sample data, icons, photographs, and website content can have different authors and legal treatment. State which license covers each category and put the corresponding notices with the relevant material.
Verify contributor and employer rights
Before selecting or changing a license, list contributors and identify work created as part of employment or a contract. A contributor may have assigned rights to an employer, or a previous project may require its original license to remain in place. GNU advises contributors generally to use the original project license and to ensure that the original license permits any proposed different license. Ownership questions that cannot be documented should be resolved before release.
Which open-source license should I use? Compare the main choices
The table summarizes the conditions described in the Choose a License comparison. It is a selection aid, not a substitute for reading the actual license version.
| License | Downstream terms | Reciprocity and source obligations | Patent language in the comparison | Typical decision signal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MIT | Modified and larger works may be distributed under different terms. | Retain copyright and license notices; no broader same-license requirement is listed in the comparison. | No express patent-use grant is listed in the summary. | You want short, permissive terms and accept proprietary downstream reuse. |
| Apache License 2.0 | Works, modifications, and larger works may use different terms. | Preserve notices and state changes, subject to the full text. | Express contributor patent grant. | You want permissive reuse with explicit patent terms and change notices. |
| GPLv3 | Covered distributed works must remain under GPL terms. | Make complete corresponding source available in the specified distribution situations; preserve notices. | Express contributor patent grant. | You want strong copyleft for distributed software. |
| AGPLv3 | GPL-style copyleft for covered works. | Also addresses modified versions used to provide a service over a network by requiring the complete modified source to be available, subject to the license text and facts. | Express contributor patent grant. | Your reciprocity goal includes software delivered as a network service. |
| LGPL | A larger work using a library through its interfaces may use different terms. | Obligations remain for the LGPL-covered library and applicable modifications. | Not stated in the reviewed comparison. | You want library-focused reciprocity rather than applying the same terms to an entire application. |
| MPL 2.0 | A larger work may use different terms. | Source-sharing conditions attach to covered files and modifications of those files. | Not stated in the reviewed comparison. | You want file-level reciprocity in a mixed-license codebase. |
“Permissive” does not mean condition-free, and “copyleft” does not prohibit commercial activity. Each license has notice, source, attribution, and other requirements that must be followed for the relevant act of copying, modifying, conveying, or providing access.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
What is the difference between MIT and Apache 2.0?
Both are permissive choices that allow a larger work to be distributed under different terms. MIT’s listed condition is to retain copyright and license notices, and the comparison does not list an express patent grant. Apache-2.0 adds notice and change-marking requirements and includes an express contributor patent grant.
That distinction matters when a project expects contributions from organizations that want explicit patent language. It does not make Apache-2.0 universally better, nor does it prove that MIT offers no patent-related protection in every legal context; it means the compared MIT terms do not contain the express grant identified for Apache-2.0. Read the exact license text and obtain qualified advice if patent risk is material.
When is GPLv3 the better fit?
GPLv3 is designed for strong copyleft in distributed software. The comparison describes permission as conditioned on making the complete source code of licensed works and modifications available in the specified distribution circumstances, under the same GPL terms, while preserving copyright and license notices.
This is appropriate when your project wants released improvements to remain available under reciprocal terms rather than allowing a distributor to take the code private in a proprietary product. The GNU Project recommends the most recent GPL for most programs and suggests “version 3 or any later version” when allowing future upgrades is useful. A project may instead need a fixed version or another license because of its purpose, dependencies, or ecosystem expectations.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Does the GPL apply if I only host the software as a service?
Do not treat hosting as an automatic trigger or exemption. The GPL obligations summarized in the comparison concern specified distribution situations. AGPLv3 specifically addresses a modified version used to provide a service over a network: it requires making the complete source of that modified version available, subject to the license’s wording and the actual deployment.
For a server, web application, API, or hosted tool, ask whether users receive a covered modified version, whether the software is conveyed or only run privately, and whether AGPL’s network-service provision applies. The label “cloud” alone does not answer those questions. Review the full AGPL text and seek advice for a commercially important deployment.
When should I choose AGPLv3?
AGPLv3 is the focused option when you want strong copyleft and want network-service use considered in the reciprocity decision. Like GPLv3, it has source-sharing and same-license features for covered works; its additional network provision concerns a modified version used to provide a service over a network.
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Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Where do LGPL and MPL 2.0 fit?
LGPL for a reusable library boundary
The reviewed comparison describes LGPL as allowing a larger work that uses the library through its interfaces to be distributed under different terms while retaining obligations for the LGPL-covered library. This can suit a library ecosystem that wants improvements to the library shared without forcing every application that links to it under the same license. Linking, replacement, and modification details depend on the applicable LGPL version.
MPL 2.0 for file-level reciprocity
MPL 2.0 attaches source-sharing conditions to covered files and modifications of those files, while permitting a larger work to use different terms. That file-focused model can work in a codebase that combines MPL files with separately licensed components. Keep file headers and notices accurate so users can tell which portions carry which obligations.
Can companies use open-source software commercially?
Yes. The OSI says open-source software can be used and sold commercially. Commercial use can include selling copies, embedding code in a product, charging for support, or operating a service. The license still controls what must accompany a distribution or modified version.
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For example, a permissive license may allow proprietary terms for a larger work while requiring notices. A copyleft license may allow commercial sales but require the covered source and same-license permissions in the situations specified by the license. Commercial intent therefore does not select a license by itself; decide what freedoms recipients must retain and what obligations your business can operationally satisfy.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Can I combine code with different licenses?
Sometimes, but compatibility is a fact-specific analysis. The GNU GPL FAQ explains that outcomes depend on the exact licenses, versions, how components are combined, and what you distribute. A license that sounds permissive is not automatically compatible with every copyleft license, and a later version is not interchangeable with an earlier one without permission.
For each dependency or copied file, record:
- the exact license name and version;
- the copyright and notice text that must travel with it;
- whether you modified it;
- how the components interact (for example, separate programs, linking, or a combined work);
- the license you plan to apply to the resulting distribution; and
- the person or organization authorized to grant any additional permission.
Do not remove an original notice because your top-level project uses another license. Mark boundaries clearly and include a component-by-component notice file when a repository contains materially different terms.
A practical step-by-step license selection workflow
- Write a one-page project brief. State the audience, whether you distribute binaries or source, whether you run a hosted service, the role of documentation and media, and whether proprietary downstream products are acceptable.
- Build an ownership register. List contributors, employers, contractors, imported code, and any contributor agreement. Resolve missing assignments or permissions before release.
- Choose your reciprocity target. Select permissive reuse if broad proprietary adoption is acceptable; select GPL-style reciprocity if distributed improvements should remain under the same terms; evaluate LGPL or MPL when the boundary should be a library or file; evaluate AGPL when network-service use is central.
- Decide whether patent terms are a requirement. Compare the express patent grants identified for Apache-2.0, GPLv3, and AGPLv3 with the needs of contributors and users. Do not infer a complete patent policy from a short summary.
- Inventory dependencies and copied material. Capture exact versions and notices, then test the proposed combination against the GNU compatibility guidance.
- Compare community expectations. OSI describes licenses as community agreements. A license unfamiliar to your contributors or ecosystem can reduce participation even when it is technically suitable. Review the license expectations of projects you intend to join or from which you expect contributions.
- Read the complete license. Use the official text, not a blog summary. Follow its application instructions, including attribution, notices, source offers, change statements, and any required written information.
- Apply licenses visibly. Put the full text in the repository’s license file, identify the license in project documentation and release materials, and label files or directories that use different terms.
- Run a release compliance check. Confirm that source corresponding to covered binaries is available as required, notices are preserved, modifications are identified where required, and network-service obligations are addressed when relevant.
- Escalate unresolved issues. Obtain advice from someone experienced in open-source licensing when compatibility, ownership, patents, or distribution could materially affect the project.
How should I apply the selected license?
Use the license’s own application instructions and make the grant easy to discover. A practical release should identify the project license, retain every upstream copyright and license notice, explain which files are exceptions, and tell recipients where to obtain corresponding source when the license requires it.
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Keep a machine-readable dependency inventory and review it whenever a component changes. Record why a particular version was selected, because “GPL” or “Apache” without a version can leave maintainers and distributors uncertain about their obligations. For generated files, fixtures, and bundled assets, state whether they are covered by the project license or by their own terms.
When should you get legal advice?
General guidance cannot determine the result for a particular repository or jurisdiction. Consult qualified open-source licensing counsel when you have unclear ownership, a mixed-license dependency graph, patent-sensitive technology, a planned relicensing, a merger or acquisition, a dual-license strategy, or a distribution contract that imposes additional terms.
The OSI says it is not a legal-services organization and recommends speaking with someone experienced when choosing a license for the first time. Treat that advice as especially important before shipping a product whose compliance process, customer commitments, or investment value depends on the license choice.
Quick Recap
Further official guidance
- Choose a License: Licenses — concise comparisons of common permissions and conditions.
- GNU Project: How to Choose a License for Your Own Work — recommendations based on purpose and contribution context.
- Open Source Initiative: Frequently Answered Questions — commercial use, applying a license, community fit, and legal-services limitations; last modified January 21, 2025.
- Open Source Initiative: The Open Source Definition — the criteria an open-source license must meet; last modified February 16, 2024.
- GNU Project: Frequently Asked Questions about the GNU Licenses — compatibility and combining-code questions.
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