Global File System (GFS) Relicensed under SPL

thk writes "Sistina, the main developer of the Global File System, has changed its license from GPL to SPL (Sistina Public License). SPL is basically a free-for-non-profit-use license. Interestingly, the change came just after beta testing, leaving some users a bit miffed. The GFS is an important component of some GPL clustering projects, such as Compaq's SSIC project. The Sistina press release is here."

Comments

Global File Systems - Danger?

[Kiss the Blade]

The GFS is a great idea, much like having DirectX support switched on automatically in Outlook Express is a good idea, but it is too open to abuse. As the internet stands, we have many little islands connected together, but each island is seperated by water. If GFS is used, the islands will connect and become continents, and it will be hard to know where one computer ends and another begins. Some optomists might think this is a wonderful idea, the sort of people who support Napster and Gnutella, however for the business minded it is but a step to disaster, for it opens corporate networks to disaster should any slip in security become evident.

Code Red III on GFS doesn't bear thinking about.

GFS is like Free Love, a good idea in principle, but leading to all sorts of nasty infections and jealousies. Do you want your computer to be the neighbourhood slut?

This may seem controversial, but people said the same of Gate's 640kb prediction, and look at where he is now.