GPL enforcement is an integral part of software freedom, but we lack systematic evidence on what kind of benefits successful enforcement can provide us. In this session, I discuss a case in which GPL enforcement led to quantifiable benefits for customers: GPL violations by Cisco/Linksys, and the emergence of OpenWRT. In 2003, Cisco/Linksys was found to be in violation of the GPL by distributing GNU/Linux source code with its WRT54G. Successful negotiations by the FSF led Cisco/Linksys to release source code, creating a wide array of custom firmware projects.
In this talk, I collect data on wireless routers, custom firmware compatibility, and match this to Amazon.com reviews. I show that users value routers compatible with OpenWRT, and that these products have higher reviews and sell more. This talk highlights the importance of measuring the impact of GPL enforcement, and shows how GPL enforcement can benefit customers.
Speakers: Do Yoon Kim