Can my web site contain GPL code if I provide an API?

Question

Say my web site is based on GPL code.

AFAIK providing a service to users through a web site - even a paid service - does not violate the GPL. This is because GPL is about distribution and I haven't delivered any code. I'm providing a service and may charge for it.

However, suppose I provide an API to my web site and charge money for usage of the API.

Can one argue that in effect I've just turned my web site into a piece of sofware which I've distributed by making it a part of external software applications, thus violating the GPL?

Answer 1

Assuming no code gets sent out to users, it's not distribution. Understand, though, that if your code has client-side JS components, and those JS components are using GPLed code, then the code must be sent either unobfuscated/unminified, or have an accompanying link to the corresponding source (unobfuscated/unminified) version.

Answer 2

1. I'll refer you to an article discussing SaaS and GPL: http://www.linux-mag.com/id/3017

2. Get a lawyer and ask. There may be options, but you can't afford to get it wrong and the devil is truly in the details.

Basically, GPL**3** won't allow you to do what you're looking for. It's terribly counterproductive, but there it is.