Re: Bug#282667: microcode.ctl: License clarification request: the microcode update file can't be distributed the way it is

["Giacomo A. Catenazzi" <cate@pixelized.ch>]

Jan Minar wrote:
> Package: microcode.ctl
> Version: 1.11-1
> Severity: normal
>
> Hi, people!
>
> CC-ing upstream, as it applies to them rather than to Debian, and
> debian-legal, as it will end up there anyways.
>
> IMO, the microcode update license forbids the way of re-distribution as
> it is used currently by the Debian package (postinst downloads it from a
> website), as well as the upstream distribution (downloadable from a
> website).
>
> | /+++
> | /       Copyright  Intel Corporation, 1995, 96, 97, 98, 99, 2000, 01, 02, 03, 04. 
> | /       
> | /       These microcode updates are distributed for the sole purpose of 
> | /       installation in the BIOS or Operating System of computer systems
> | /       which include a Genuine Intel microprocessor sold or distributed
>                                                        ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
> | /       to or by you. You are not authorized to use this material for
>           ^^^^^^^^^^^^
> | /       any other purpose.  
> | /---
>
>
> -- I think neither Debian nor upstream satisfies this.  If this was true
> users would have to obtain the update manually (not that bad idea).
>
> Intel should be asked to ``clarify'' their license.
>
> -- This will take a long time, presumably, but as the code is non-free,
> therefore not distributed in Debian, and upstream will not likely remove
> it, and it's a bugfix anyway, who cares.

debian-legal already clarified this.

1- Intel sent to us microcode and allowed us to distribute it.
   (see archieve of debian-legal)
2- Debian distributes an "operating System", so we are allowed to
   distribute it.

ciao
	cate