There is a heap of software patents news at the moment. Here is one thing we can do against them.

Since David Axmark and I started to work on MySQL we also took a strong stand against software patents. MySQL AB have been sponsoring several efforts to prevent software patents in Europa.

Now David and I are continuing to do this outside of MySQL AB.

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If you are a philanthropist and if you care about open source software and don't have a love for the current patent system, I encourage you to join us in sponsoring Patent Lens. You can also try to get your company to sponsor.

Interestingly enough, as Digital Majority wishes to point out, software patents can also be used as a FUD tactic, not just for actual lawsuits. That's precisely what Microsoft is doing at the moment. Dillon wrote:

Developers are curious whether NetApp will be successful in hindering even greater adoption of Sun's ZFS open source technology.

Therein lies the conflict between companies with encyclopedias of patents (portfolio) and Free software. Sun must adapt to the stance of MySQL, as opposed to the other way around. Sun's and MySQL's new relationship continues to act as a problem to the work of MySQL's founders. ⬆