my distribution scheme for GPLed software

[Andreas K. Foerster]

X-Comment-To: Alex Hudson, Paolo Gianrossi

On Tue, Mar 04, 2003 at 01:28:29PM +0000, Alex Hudson wrote:

> What I am talking about is specifically this: the software is under the
> GPL, but if you download it you are not allowed to redistribute it under
> a certain name. I think this contradicts GPL.6:
> 
> "You may not impose any further restrictions on the recipients' exercise of
> the rights granted herein."
> 
> It sounds to me like a further restriction - that is the point I was making.

The GPL deals with the software, not with names.
The name isn't put under the GPL.

The GNU people themselves make such restrictions for modifying the GPL.
Have a look at this link:
http://www.gnu.org/licenses/gpl-faq.html#ModifyGPL

> > Trademarks
> > can never prevent you from copying a piece of software.
> 
> RedHat disagree with you: 
> http://www.redhat.com/about/corporate/trademark/guidelines/

I've read it, but I didn't find, where they disagree.
They allow copying the software under a different name.

> > Trademark laws ban people from using names
> > and logos of other people/corporation to identify there work.
> 
> But if the trademark is used within a piece of software, then that software
> has to be redistributed according to the wishes of the owner of the 
> trademark until it is removed (if removal is possible).

It would be a violation if removal wouldn't be possible.

> Linux Emporium don't even seem to stock it at all now. That prevents
> people copying free software.

Huh? Isn't the same software also available on other distributions?

P.S.:
The company doesn't want to be named. So don't give them any credit by
calling their name so often. Just forget their name. ;-)

-- 
Tschuess
	Andreas