A constant thorn in the eye of many Linux kernel developers is the existence of closed-source kernel modules, most notably those by Nvidia and Ati, but also some file system drivers and other elements. Most of the Linux developers have been against these modules ever since they were first used, and in fact, bug reports originating from a tainted kernel are often disregarded and ignored. The kernel developers have now rallied together by issuing a statement urging vendors to release open source Linux kernel modules and drivers.
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Member since:2005-08-12
Member since:2007-09-06
Would FOSS kernel modules for wifi networking (cough, broadcom, caugh) and other hardware only supported now though binary blob "we have patents in there" bad coding really be such a bad thing.
As far as I can see, the only limitation is that everybody must be allowed the four freedoms. There are many other licenses though so if you don't like GPL, choose something different for your code.
(Are you a developer who would actually be effected by the "limitations"? I can write code but I wouldn't claim to be a developer or limited by GPL.)
(Edit: drat, that was meant for the complaining post above yours)
Edited 2008-06-24 13:50 UTC
Member since:2006-01-22
You can choose not to use gpl software. This is freedom. However the fact that I have to use windows in order to make my printer function properly is definitely not freedom. When I bought it I didn't know that it was win-only. The next printer was linux-oss friendly. But who will give me back the money for my old printer? Worse is the fact that it has no Vista drivers.
So mister troll will you give me back my MONEY??????? If the specs were open I could write a CUPS driver. I know how and I would do it.
Member since:2005-07-28
Member since:2006-02-16
If I design a software product and people say I cant make it play with GPL product X because I wont hand over my hard work to others, that's not freedom.
The designer of gpl product X can refuse to take my closed source product as part of his product, that's his freedom...but he cant tell me I cant make a closed source product to work WITH his GPL product.
Closed source isn't going away...people like to hold their hard work in their own hands way too much...so best thing for GPL people is to play nice with the closed source.
The harder GPL people try to fight closed source, the more they are shooting themselves to the foot.
The fact there IS Nvidia and Ati drivers for Linux is a victory for linux by itself...telling Nvidia and AMD to hand over their work or be gone is pure selfishness and inflicts THEIR freedom.
Member since:2006-12-16
This has nothing to do with FSF, so please stop your trolling. This has everything to do with the kernel development team wanting to see the code for modules that are being inserted into the running Linux kernel.
I personally find the linux kernel developers request offensive.
Dave
Member since:
2006-02-16
Working on the kernel instead of pushing their agendas in attempts to oppress peoples software freedom?
GPL isn't freedom as it pushes everyone to submit to one agenda.