With the launch of our updated free offering, to be renamed Mattermost Entry, we’re updating the licensing terms to more explicitly protect the Mattermost brand and users of the free edition. Certain requirements, such as not reverse engineering the software, are already part of our terms, and we’re being more explicitly written so expectations are consistent for everyone.
As a reminder, Mattermost Entry is commercial software, and commercial terms apply. Also, Mattermost Entry will feature MORE capabilities previously limited to our subscription-only license, such as workflow automation and project management. However, in order to provide these in the free version, we’re also adding usage limitations, so that the subscription version continues to add value and be justified in its purchase.
If you’d prefer to use the Mattermost without usage limits and commercial terms, you’re welcome to compile the Mattermost open source project from its source code, (See FAQ).
For avoidance of doubt, the following actions will be explicitly prohibited going forward when it comes to the existing reverse engineering clause in the current license, to be emphasized in the updated one:
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Unauthorized User Interface changes – Altering the Mattermost Entry user interface outside of supported configuration settings (for example, removing the “Free Edition” designation using a reverse proxy) is already prohibited, and the prohibition will be emphasized. Organizations seeking advanced white labeling and customization should pursue a commercial partnership agreement with Mattermost, Inc.
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Circumvention of licensing mechanisms – Any reverse engineering, de-compilation, license key tampering, or other activity intended to bypass edition limits or license restrictions is of course prohibited.
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Commercial redistribution requirements – Commercial entities may not redistribute versions of Mattermost that are past end-of-life and redistributed versions must provide a mechanism for end users to opt-in to Mattermost’s security alert emails, ensuring notification of critical security patches.
These updates are intended to protect end users and the Mattermost brand, as well as to align Mattermost free commercial offering with the Mattermost business.
To review the license file, look into the LICENSE.txt in the Mattermost server download.