Re: Legal use of multimdedia software

On Monday 08 January 2007 13:38, Damien Hull wrote:
> I'm wondering how the "legal issues" with multimedia software such as
> the w32codecs effects the use of Linux. Is it preventing companies from
> deploying and or creating the Linux desktop system?
>
> How do distributions such as Debian, Ubuntu and Fedora get away with
> it? These distributions don't provide the software on the CD. However,
> you can fined documentation that explains how to install the w32codecs
> along with other multimedia software.

Not all software is illegal outside of the US. There is software for
multimedia on a server ( not in the US) for Debian, for those countries
where it is legal. So far there isn't any country boundaries on the
internet, people do as their concious allows.
>
> A quick Google search shows that libdvdcss and mp3 codecs are in the
> gray area. I'm not sure what that means. I think you can get a license
> for both.
>
> The w32codecs are a different story. Apparently the w32codecs are a
> copy of the Windows dll's. It is illegal to use them outside of
> Windows.

Is it illegal to use them outside f Windows" . Caveat, never have, never
will read a MS eula. What If you have a license for them, which most/
many folks have can you use them on a computer with the Windows hologram
or some such nonsense ?
>
> * Is there a way around all of this?
> * Will this kill Linux? ( don't hate me for asking )
> o Company may not deploy Linux for fear of being sued

Lindows has purchased licensing for DVD playback, you can probable buy a
licensed player from them. Any distro , not user, would probably be sued
for offering any of the above without paying licensing fees. Of course I
am not a lawyer, nor do I play one on TV.

-- 
Greg Madden
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