kernel modules, derived work and GPLv2
Phil Perry
phil at elrepo.org
Wed Jul 12 10:56:40 EDT 2023
Hello list,
I am seeking to fully understand my obligations under the GPL regarding
kernel modules, derived works and requirements to distribute the source
code.
If I build a kernel module (driver) against the linux kernel, and that
kernel module is deemed to be a derived work, I understand that it must
also be licensed under the GPL. As such, if I distribute the binary
kernel module (driver), I must also distribute the kernel module source
code. That all seems straightforward, no issues there.
However, what about the source code for the linux kernel the kernel
module (driver) was built against - is that also deemed part of the
derived work and must I also distribute the linux kernel source code
against which my binary kernel module (driver) was compiled?
If yes, what part of the linux kernel source code tree must I
distribute? All of it, or just the source code for the interfaces
(exported symbols) I have used in my module?
If my question is not appropriate for this list, I will happily accept
pointers to a more appropriate forum.
Thanks,
Phil
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