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What is the GPL license?
The GPL is an open-source license that lets you use and change software, but asks you to share your changes under the same rules.
- Category GitHub & code
- Also called GNU General Public License, GPLv3, GPL-3.0
- Updated 20 Oct 2026
GPL, explained simply
GPL stands for GNU General Public License. It is known as a copyleft license.
Copyleft means that if you share a changed version, you must share it under GPL too, with its code.
That keeps the software open for everyone who gets it.
If you only use the software yourself, you generally have no extra duty. This is general information, not legal advice.
On ITG Now, our tool guides note the license of each tool, and flag when it is GPL, since that affects how you can reuse it.
Related terms
Software licenseAGPLMIT LicenseApache 2.0Open source
Where you'll see it on ITG Now
- GuideOpenHuman: Open Source AI Agent App That Runs Lean (2026)
- GuideVorssaint Utils: Free Mac Utility App for Menu Bar (2026)
- GuideMole: Free Mac Cleaner That Runs in Terminal (2026)
- GuideThaw: Free Mac Menu Bar Manager, No Tracking (2026 Guide)
- GuidePake: Turn Any Website Into a Desktop App, Free (2026)
Questions people ask about GPL
Can I use GPL software for business?
In general yes, you can use it. Rules apply when you share changed versions. This isn't legal advice.
GPL vs MIT: what is the difference?
MIT has few rules. GPL requires shared changes to stay under GPL.
Is GPL software free?
It is free to use and share under the license. Free here also means freedom, not only price.