Response from MySql AB (Re: Humor me: Postgresql vs. MySql (esp. licensing))

Here's an interesting response from mysql.com sales. Frankly, I don't see
how using it on multiple internal servers violates the GPL?!?:

<btw, forgive me if this comes through as a repost later. I'm still
getting used to having multiple email addrs in this client :)>

Hi John,

Thank you for your interest in MySQL. My answers below.

> -----Original Message-----
> From: mysql(at)sourceillustrated(dot)com
> [mailto:mysql(at)sourceillustrated(dot)com]
> Sent: Wednesday, October 08, 2003 7:50 AM
> To: licensing(at)mysql(dot)com
> Subject: MySQL Licensing Question, US, -unknown-
>
>
> The following form was submitted via MySQL.com feedback engine:
>
> Name: John Wells
>
> Email address: mysql(at)sourceillustrated(dot)com
>
> Type of interest: for company use
>
> Country: US
>
> Support contract: no
>
> Enter Your Questions, Comments, Feedback or Your Message here:
>
> I'm a little confused on the meaning of "distributing either
externally or internally" on the license page. If we develop an
application that uses MySql as the backend database and
> use in on our
> internal LAN, do we need to license it commmercially?

Internal distribution applies to internally distributing/installing more
than one application. If you plan to use one installation of MySQL it
would not be considered distribution and you could use if for free with
your "internally built application."

> How would this
> be in violation of the GPL?

If your application (internal or external) is licensed under the terms of
the GPL, you are allowed to distribute MySQL, also under the GPL, for
free.

What do you mean, exactly,
> by internal
> distribution?
>
> Also, if we write an application that expects MySql (like
> a web app),
> but we don't package the database with the application
> and tell the
> customer that they must download and install it, is this
> violation of
> the GPL?

Again, if your application is licensed under the terms of the GPL you can
use MySQL for free. If your application is not licensed under the terms
of the GPL, commercial non-GPL licenses are necessary. You will need to
purchase licenses under this scenario (unless you go GPL), please review
our licensing examples,
http://www.mysql.com/products/licensing-examples.html.

How are you planning to use MySQL?

Mr. Matt Fredrickson,
Sales Executive
MySQL, Inc. - www.mysql.com
Office: +1 425 390 0154
Fax: +1 425 663 2001

MySQL Featured in the Wall Street Journal:
http://webreprints.djreprints.com/785490482991.html