There Is So Much Here..

Summary

The video discusses the recent licensing changes of Redis, a widely-used open-source database. It explores the implications of these changes on the community, contributors, and major cloud service providers. The script delves into the history of Redis, its founder's intentions, and the potential motivations behind the shift from a permissive open-source license to a dual-licensing model. The change has sparked controversy and debate over the sustainability of open-source projects and the influence of venture capital on their development and direction.

Takeaways

• 📜 Redis has adopted a dual-source licensing model, moving away from its open-source status.
• 🤔 The decision has sparked controversy and mixed opinions within the developer community.
• 💡 The change in licensing affects how Redis can be used commercially, particularly impacting cloud service providers.
• 🚀 Redis aims to continue evolving its data models and processing engines with the new licensing model.
• 🌐 The Redis community edition will still offer the source code for free, while the source-available versions will have restrictions.
• 🔄 The fork of Redis by AWS, named 'Valkyrie', is a direct response to the licensing change.
• 💼 The Redis founder, Salvatore Sanfilippo, stepped back from the project in 2020, selling the IP and trademarks to Redis Labs.
• 💰 The investment and funding of Redis by major companies like VMware, and later the shift in licensing, suggest a move towards profitability.
• 🔧 The licensing change has led to the development of alternatives like 'kydb' and Microsoft's 'Garet', offering open-source options to Redis.
• 👥 The impact on the Redis developer community is still uncertain, with concerns about the future of open-source projects and their sustainability.
• 📖 The story of Redis highlights the complexities and challenges of balancing open-source ideals with commercial interests and investor pressures.

Q & A

What is the main change in Redis licensing model?

Redis has adopted a dual-source available licensing model, which means future releases will be offered under both the Redis Source Available License (RSAL) and the Server Side Public License (SSPL).

How does the dual-licensing model affect Redis users?

For individual developers and users, there is no change as they can continue to use Redis under the permissive RSAL. However, cloud service providers and enterprises using Redis as part of their services will need to comply with the SSPL, which may involve licensing fees.

What was the original license for Redis?

Redis was originally licensed under the 3-clause BSD license, which was permissive and allowed for free use, modification, and distribution of the source code.

Why did Redis switch from the 3-clause BSD license to a dual-licensing model?

The switch was made to ensure the sustainability of the Redis project and to allow the Redis company to continue evolving the product and providing support for its users. This change was driven by the need to monetize the project, which had been providing a foundation for many applications and infrastructures for 15 years.

What is the Redis Source Available License (RSAL)?

RSAL is a new license under which Redis will be distributed. It does not require the publication of source code but restricts who can use the software directly, preventing third parties from offering Redis as a service without a licensing agreement with Redis maintainers.

What is the Server Side Public License (SSPL)?

SSPL is a license that requires anyone who uses SSPL-licensed software as part of a service to release the source code for the entirety of that service. It was originally created for MongoDB and has been adopted by Redis for its new licensing model.

How has the community reacted to the licensing change?

The community has had mixed reactions, with some expressing frustration and disappointment, feeling that the change is a betrayal of the open-source ethos. Others are trying to understand the financial pressures that led to the decision and are considering the implications for their use of Redis.

What are the implications for cloud service providers like AWS and Alibaba?

Cloud service providers will no longer be able to use Redis for free as part of their hosted services. They will need to agree to licensing terms with Redis maintainers to continue offering Redis 7.4 and future versions, which may involve paying fees.

Are there any alternatives to Redis that users can consider?

Yes, alternatives like KyDB and Garet, which are open-source and compatible with existing Redis clients, have emerged. Users starting new projects or looking to replace Redis in their existing projects can consider these options without significant issues.

What is the significance of the Redis founder's departure from the project?

The departure of the Redis founder, Salvatore Sanfilippo, also known as antirez, signifies a major shift in the project's direction and leadership. His absence from the project since 2020 and the subsequent licensing change have raised questions about the future of Redis and its alignment with the community's spirit.

How does the licensing change impact the open-source community at large?

The licensing change has sparked a debate within the open-source community about the sustainability of open-source projects, the role of corporate funding, and the balance between community spirit and commercial interests. It highlights the challenges faced by open-source projects in securing long-term support and development.