PHP License facts for kids
| Version | 3.01 |
|---|---|
| Copyright | The PHP Group |
| DFSG compatible | No |
| Free software | Yes |
| OSI approved | Yes |
| GPL compatible | No |
| Copyfree | No |
| Copyleft | No |
The PHP License is like a set of rules for using the PHP computer language. PHP is a special language used to build websites and apps. This license helps many people use and share PHP's code.
It allows you to use PHP's code for free. You can even change it if you want. You can also share your changed versions with others. This can be done as computer code or as ready-to-use programs. There are just a few simple rules to follow.
Contents
How the PHP License Works
The PHP License is an open-source license. This means its code is open for everyone to see and use. The main goal of this license is to make sure lots of people use PHP. It wants PHP to be popular and easy to share.
Sharing and Changing the Code
You are allowed to share the PHP code. You can share it in its original form. You can also share it after you have made changes. This sharing can be done in two ways:
- As source code: This is the original text that programmers write.
- As binary code: This is the ready-to-use program that computers understand.
There are only a few small conditions you need to follow. These conditions help protect the PHP name. They also make sure the original creators get credit.
PHP 3 and the Dual License
When PHP version 3 came out, it used two licenses. This was called a dual license. You could use PHP 3 under the PHP License. Or, you could use it under the GNU General Public License (GPL). The GPL is another type of open-source license.
Why They Changed It
Starting with PHP version 4, they stopped using the GPL. The people who made PHP decided to drop it. They felt the GPL had too many rules about sharing. The GPL has something called "copyleft." This means if you use GPL code, your new code must also be GPL. The PHP creators wanted more freedom for people using their code. They wanted to make it easier for others to use PHP in their own projects.
The Zend Engine License
The main part of PHP is called the Zend Engine. This engine is what makes PHP programs run. The Zend Engine has its own separate license. It is called the Zend Engine License.
This license is very similar to the PHP License. It also has rules about using the names "Zend" and "Zend Engine." It also asks that if you use the Zend Engine, you mention it in your ads. This helps people know what powers their software.
See also
In Spanish: Licencia PHP para niños
- Apache License
- Software using the PHP license (category)
