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domains, we stand ready to extend this provision to those domains in future versions of the GPL, as needed
to protect the freedom of users.
Finally, every program is threatened constantly by software patents. States should not allow patents to
restrict development and use of software on general-purpose computers, but in those that do, we wish to
avoid the special danger that patents applied to a free program could make it effectively proprietary. To
prevent this, the GPL assures that patents cannot be used to render the program non-free.
The precise terms and conditions for copying, distribution and modification follow.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
0. Definitions.
"This License" refers to version 3 of the GNU General Public License.
"Copyright" also means copyright-like laws that apply to other kinds of works, such as semiconductor
masks.
"The Program" refers to any copyrightable work licensed under this License. Each licensee is addressed as
"you". "Licensees" and "recipients" may be individuals or organizations.
To "modify" a work means to copy from or adapt all or part of the work in a fashion requiring copyright
permission, other than the making of an exact copy. The resulting work is called a "modified version" of
the earlier work or a work "based on" the earlier work.
A "covered work" means either the unmodified Program or a work based on the Program.
To "propagate" a work means to do anything with it that, without permission, would make you directly or
secondarily liable for infringement under applicable copyright law, except executing it on a computer or
modifying a private copy. Propagation includes copying, distribution (with or without modification),
making available to the public, and in some countries other activities as well.
To "convey" a work means any kind of propagation that enables other parties to make or receive copies.
Mere interaction with a user through a computer network, with no transfer of a copy, is not conveying.
An interactive user interface displays "Appropriate Legal Notices" to the extent that it includes a
convenient and prominently visible feature that (1) displays an appropriate copyright notice, and (2) tells
the user that there is no warranty for the work (except to the extent that warranties are provided), that
licensees may convey the work under this License, and how to view a copy of this License. If the interface
presents a list of user commands or options, such as a menu, a prominent item in the list meets this
criterion.
1. Source Code.
The "source code" for a work means the preferred form of the work for making modifications to it. "Object
code" means any non-source form of a work.
A "Standard Interface" means an interface that either is an official standard defined by a recognized
standards body, or, in the case of interfaces specified for a particular programming language, one that is
widely used among developers working in that language.
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