When comparing GPLv2 vs Simplified BSD License, the Slant community recommends Simplified BSD License for most people. In the question“What are the best open-source licenses?” Simplified BSD License is ranked 6th while GPLv2 is ranked 7th. The most important reason people chose Simplified BSD License is:
BSD licensed software can be used with proprietary software.
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Pros
Pro Ensures that derivitave works are also protected by copyleft
Ensures that the software and its derivatives remain licensed under the same license to keep the software free and open source.
Pro Guarantees that all changes are given back
Pro Ensures that the software does not become proprietary
Pro Can be used with proprietary software
BSD licensed software can be used with proprietary software.
Pro Short and simple text
This license has one requirement with 2 clauses, both of whcih are related to the distribution of the license itself.
Pro Protects the author
The author of the software avoids any risk for how the software may be used by others.
Pro Prevents lock-in
The license basically allows anyone to do whatever they want with the code as long as the original copyright and license notice is included along with the copy of the code. The code can be used for commercially, it can be modified and it can be distributed.
Cons
Con Cannot be linked with other licenses
Software licensed under the GNU GPLv2 is incompatible with all other licenses, with the exception of GPLv3 in most cases. This means that code from a GPLv2 program cannot be combined with code under another license in the same program.
Con Long and complicated
The license is very long and complicated, making it hard to read and comprehend. However, there is a simplified version available here.
Con Nothing prevents someone else from making money off of your software
The 2-clause BSD license is permissive enough that anyone can take your code, rebrand it and sell it.