Licensing FAQ

Answers to the most common questions about GPL, our licensing practices, and legal considerations.

General Questions

Is GrootMade legal?

Yes. We operate within the explicit rights granted by the GNU General Public License. The GPL allows anyone to use, modify, and redistribute GPL-licensed software. This is not a loophole—it's the intended purpose of the license.

Isn't this piracy?

No. Piracy involves distributing content against the wishes of rights holders and in violation of license terms. GPL explicitly permits redistribution. We're exercising rights the original creators granted when they chose the GPL license.

Why do creators charge if it's GPL?

Creators can charge for:

• Distribution — Convenient access to downloads
• Support — Help using the product
• Updates — Notification and delivery of new versions
• Development — Funding ongoing improvements

They cannot restrict the freedoms GPL grants to code recipients.

Should I feel guilty using GrootMade?

That's a personal choice. Consider:

• GPL was designed to enable exactly this
• Many members also support original creators when possible
• Not everyone can afford premium pricing
• Software freedom benefits the entire ecosystem

Using Products

Can I use these on commercial sites?

Yes. GPL Freedom 0 allows use for any purpose, including commercial projects.

Can I use them on client sites?

Yes. There are no restrictions on who uses the software or how many installations you create.

Do I need to credit the original creators?

License headers should remain intact, but you don't need visible attribution on your website.

Can I modify the code?

Yes. GPL Freedom 1 explicitly allows studying and adapting the code.

Can I remove "Powered by" links?

Yes. While attribution is nice, GPL doesn't require visible credits on your site.

Redistribution

Can I share downloads with others?

Technically yes — GPL allows redistribution. However, our Terms of Service restrict redistribution of products downloaded through our platform to protect our business model. You can share the original GPL source.

Can I sell GPL products?

Yes. GPL allows charging for distribution. However, you cannot restrict the recipient's GPL rights.

Can I start my own platform like GrootMade?

Yes. There's nothing legally preventing it. Several similar platforms exist.

Support & Updates

Will I get support from original creators?

No. Original creators typically only support direct customers. GrootMade products come with community support only.

Will products update automatically?

Yes — through our connector plugin. You won't receive updates from original creators' systems.

What if an update breaks something?

Use our rollback feature to restore the previous version. Our community can help troubleshoot.

Trademarks

Why are products renamed?

Trademarks are separate from copyright. While GPL grants rights to code, it doesn't grant rights to use trademarks. We rename products to:

• Avoid trademark infringement
• Clearly distinguish from originals
• Prevent customer confusion

Is the code exactly the same?

The functional code is identical. Only branding elements (name, logo, links) are changed.

Business Use

Can my company use GrootMade?

Yes. GPL allows use by individuals, businesses, nonprofits, governments—anyone.

Do we need a special license for enterprise?

No. GPL is the license. It applies the same regardless of company size.

Can we audit the code for compliance?

Yes. GPL Freedom 1 guarantees access to source code for study.

Ethical Considerations

Does this hurt plugin/theme developers?

Arguments exist on both sides:

Potential concerns:

• Lost direct sales
• Reduced funding for development
• Devalued premium positioning

Counter-arguments:

• Expands awareness of products
• Many users couldn't/wouldn't pay full price
• Some convert to paying customers
• GPL is their chosen license

How can I support original creators?

If you find value in a product:

• Purchase directly if you can afford it
• Leave positive reviews
• Recommend to others
• Contribute to development if open-source

Legal Disclaimers

GrootMade's Position

We operate in good faith under GPL. We:

• Only distribute GPL-licensed products
• Document source and attribution
• Remove trademarks appropriately
• Respect takedown requests for valid claims

Your Responsibility

You're responsible for:

• How you use downloaded products
• Compliance with GPL if you redistribute
• Any modifications you make

Not Legal Advice

This FAQ is educational, not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal questions.