Microsoft/Novell Pact (2006) – is it ethical? Rough Draft

The pact Cross License agreement Microsoft asserts that Linux users infringe upon its IP. Grants pardon to users that license Linux based software from Novell Stake holders Microsoft Novell GNUFUD FLOSS users & developers

Controversy FUD Claims Linux & other FLOSS violates Microsoft patents This claim is unsubstantiated “If a customer says, 'Look, do we have liability for the use of your patented work?' Essentially, If you're using non-SUSE Linux, then I'd say the answer is yes” -- Steve Balmer Violates the spirit of the GNU GPL license Clause 7 of GPL V2 Cannot grant specific patent pardons for some but not all users

Adding Insult to injury Microsoft says it will not file suits against hobby developers that do not publish infringing code Novell enters controversial pact shortly after adapting Linux based solutions FLOSS users view this action as a way to steer the community Deal was made in perfect secrecy

Aftermath New version of GPL v3 Novell is alienated from the community on which they rely