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Commercial Licensing Information

CC Version Guard by Zendevve

Dual Licensing Model

This project uses a dual licensing approach that is fully compliant with GPLv3:

1. Source Code (Free - GPLv3)

The source code of CC Version Guard is free and open source under the GNU General Public License v3.0:

✅ You CAN:

  • View, study, and audit the source code
  • Modify the code for your own purposes
  • Compile the software yourself for personal use
  • Distribute the source code under GPLv3 terms
  • Create derivative works under GPLv3

📜 Full terms: See LICENSE

2. Pre-Compiled Binaries (Commercial)

Pre-compiled executables (.exe, .msi, installers) are exclusively distributed by Zendevve:

❌ You CANNOT:

  • Redistribute the official compiled binaries
  • Re-upload them to other platforms
  • Sell or share the pre-built executables
  • Mirror the release artifacts

✅ You CAN:

  • Purchase official binaries from authorized channels
  • Use purchased binaries on your own devices
  • Compile from source for personal use (free under GPLv3)

Why This Model?

This approach balances open source principles with sustainable development:

  1. Transparency: Anyone can audit the code for security/privacy
  2. Freedom: Technical users can build from source for free
  3. Convenience: Non-technical users can purchase ready-to-use builds
  4. Sustainability: Revenue supports ongoing development and maintenance

Is This Legal Under GPLv3?

Yes, absolutely. The GPLv3 license:

  • ✅ Permits charging for distribution (Section 4)
  • ✅ Allows exclusive binary distribution by the copyright holder
  • ✅ Requires source code availability (we provide it freely)
  • ✅ Does NOT require free binary distribution

From GPLv3:

"You may charge any price or no price for each copy that you convey, and you may offer support or warranty protection for a fee." (Section 4)

Purchasing Official Binaries

Where to Buy

Official pre-compiled binaries are available exclusively from:

What You Get

When you purchase a binary license, you receive:

  1. Pre-compiled executable - No complex build process required
  2. Automatic updates - Notification of new versions
  3. Priority support - Faster response to issues
  4. Financial contribution - Supporting open source development

What You DON'T Get

Purchasing does NOT grant you:

  • ❌ Right to redistribute the binary
  • ❌ Commercial use rights beyond personal use
  • ❌ Modified licensing terms
  • ❌ Warranty or guarantees (see LEGAL_DISCLAIMER.md)

Pricing

  • Individual License: $9.99 USD (one-time purchase)

    • Lifetime access to your purchased version
    • Updates for that major version (e.g., v1.x)

  • Supporter License: $19.99 USD (one-time purchase)

    • All Individual License benefits
    • Lifetime updates across all versions
    • Priority support via GitHub Sponsors

Building From Source (Free Alternative)

You can always build from source for FREE under GPLv3:

git clone https://github.com/Zendevve/cc-version-guard.git
cd cc-version-guard
npm install
npm run tauri build

Why purchase instead of building?

Building requires:

  • Windows SDK, Visual Studio Build Tools (several GB)
  • Rust toolchain setup and configuration
  • Node.js and npm environment
  • 30-60 minutes of build time
  • Technical knowledge to troubleshoot build errors

Purchasing gives you:

  • Instant download and installation
  • No technical expertise required
  • Support for the developer
  • More convenient for non-developers

For Enterprise/Organizational Use

If you wish to:

  • Deploy to multiple users in your organization
  • Integrate into commercial products
  • Resell or bundle with other software

Please contact business@zendevve.com for enterprise licensing options.

Comparison Chart

Feature Build from Source (Free) Purchase Binary
Cost Free $9.99+ USD
Source Code Access ✅ Full access ✅ Full access
Ready to Use ❌ Must build yourself ✅ Instant download
Technical Skills Required ⚠️ Moderate to Advanced ✅ None
Build Time ~30-60 minutes Instant
Disk Space for Build Tools ~10-15 GB ~100 MB
Priority Support Community only ✅ Direct support
Lifetime Updates ✅ (must rebuild) ✅ (Supporter tier)
Can Redistribute ✅ Source only (GPLv3) ❌ No redistribution

Refund Policy

Pre-compiled binaries are sold AS-IS with NO REFUNDS, except in cases of:

  • Technical defect preventing installation on a supported OS
  • Fraudulent billing issues

Please review LEGAL_DISCLAIMER.md before purchasing.

Questions?

Summary

Aspect Status
Source Code Free (GPLv3)
Compile Yourself Free (GPLv3)
Pre-Built Binaries Paid (Zendevve Exclusive)
GPLv3 Compliant ✅ Yes
Open Source ✅ Yes
Sustainable Model ✅ Yes

This licensing model ensures CC Version Guard remains open source while supporting ongoing development through optional paid convenience.