Redis License Update: Things You Need to Know
Tags: webdev, beginners, tutorial
Published: 2024-04-29 09:54:32

Are you dependent on Redis for your projects? You must keep an eye on every new update that occurs in Redis. After all, staying informed helps you make the best decision.  

Redis, also known as Remote Dictionary Server, is a prominent open-source, in-memory database. The database stores data as key-value pairs. Individuals use Redis as a quick-response database, message broker, or application cache. 

Redis has come a long way since its initial release in 2009. It has become a popular choice for web developers, thanks to its flexibility and speed.  

Redis keeps updating its license periodically. It affects how people can use this technology. In this post, we explore the latest updates in Redis License.

So without any further ado, let us get started.
 
Prominent Changes in License
Earlier, Redis was being operated under the BSD 3- Clause License. However, now it is moving toward a dual-license model. It allows web developers to choose between the Redis Source Available License version 2 (RSALv2) or the Server-Side Public License version 1 (SAMPLV1). 

Let us get to know more about these two versions.
 
**What is RSALV2?**
RSALV2, also known as Redis Source Available License 2.0 is a permissive, royalty-free license provided by Redis. It permits the use, modification, and distribution of software components designed to work particularly with Redis. However, this agreement is subject to certain limitations.
 
What is SSPLV1?
SSPLV1 (Server Side Public License) is an adaptation of the GNU Affero General Public License (AGPL). If any entity offers SSPL-licensed software as a service, they will have to release the entire source code of the service. These include user interfaces, APIs, management, and automation.

This dual-license model offers extensive flexibility and clarity to developers. They can determine how to use Redis technologies in their projects as per their preferences.
RSALv2 is a permissive non-copyleft license. It grants users the right to copy, use, distribute, make available, and create derivative works of the software. The license has two primary limitations under RSALv2. These include:
Users cannot commercialize the software or use it as a managed service for others.

**People cannot remove copyright or licensing.**
All-in-all, with the Redis 7.4 version, Redis has become dual-licensed under the RSAL v2 and SSPLv1. 
 
Now users will not be able to use Redis’s source code under the BSD 3-clause license. Nevertheless, Redis will continue to provide free and permissive use of the source code under SSPLv1 and RSALv2 licenses. 

Redis has jumped into the next phase of Web development. This real-time data platform offers a unified set of clients and various core Redis tools under Redis Community Edition.
Users can now use Redis across different contexts, such as high-performance key/value, powerful query engine, and document store.
Redis’ new license approach makes Redis source code widely available. It provides developers with a feature-rich platform with minimal limitations. 

According to Redis, its dual license approach is not new. They released Redis modules back in 2022 under dual licenses. 
Nevertheless, this time they have switched to dual licensing for their free available software. With this update, the company eliminates issues that have been raised by the community. 
 
**Acquisition of Speed**
Besides making changes in the license, Redis has acquired Speedb. Speedb is a RocksDBI-compatible key-value storage engine. The engine is capable of stabilizing the performance even under the heavy load. 

Redis is in-memory storage. However, with this acquisition, it has improved its performance several times. The acquisition confirms Redis commitment to keep up with the latest database technology and enhance its overall capability.
 
**Impact of License Update **
For individuals using Redis’ open-source version or new releases (dual licenses) for personal or internal usage, there is no change. 

Nevertheless, companies that provide competitive offerings will not be able to use the source code of Redis for free. They are not allowed to sell source code to 3rd parties through paid support arrangements.
 
**Final Words**
So these were some updates of the [Redis License](https://almaswebconsulting.com/redis-license-update-things-you-need-to-know). We hope it helps make an informed decision for your next project. Going through these updates, we can say that organizations with competitive offerings to Redis will no longer be allowed to source code free of cost. Nevertheless, you can’t overlook the improvements Redis has brought..