If you have explored premium WordPress plugin sites, you may have seen websites giving you the opportunity to get popular plugins much more cheaply or for free this is made possible through GPL. This question is important to many users who don’t understand GPL, like newcomers and smaller businesses: Is it legal to employ GPL WordPress plugins?
We will go through what the GPL license does, what it means for you as a user and discuss the ethics and legality involved with using it. We will also explore how WPAddonBox supplies great deals on plugins for you to use responsibly and legally.
What Is GPL?
Being familiar with the text of the GNU General Public License
The Free Software Foundation is the creator of GPL which is short for GNU General Public License, a free software license. According to WordPress, it and most of its extensions are covered by the GPLv2 or newer. This allows users to do four particular things with the software:
- The ability to use the software for different reasons.
- Licenses usually allow developers to fully investigate and customize the program.
- The ability to give users their own copies of the software.
- The right to pass on being able to adjust the software for others.
As a result, people can redistribute, resell or share GPL-licensed plugins including premium ones, as long as they don’t break the rules set by the license.
 Visit WPAddonBox to find out more about GPL-compatible WordPress plugins.
Is It Legal to Use GPL WordPress Plugins?
In short, the answer is yes.
People or companies can legally use, distribute and sell GPL-licensed WordPress plugins. When a plugin is covered by the GPL (as is true for most), it gives you those freedoms automatically.
This means:
- You can obtain a plugin from another site and use it on however many websites you like.
- You may give the template to someone else to use or adjust it yourself.
- You’re allowed to sell it, as long as you don’t pretend it’s yours or disobey trademark rules.
GPL Plugins vs. Pirated Plugins
You should always know the difference between GPL plugins and pirated plugins.
GPL Plugins
- Legally distributed.
- Code without any identifiable malware.
- Usually can be found in safe places like WPAddonBox.
Pirated Plugins
- Frequent origin is from unreliable online sources.
- Possibly includes hidden malware or backdoors.
- Breaches the other terms (such as trademark or brand rules).
It is illegal to use pirated plugins and these could jeopardize your website’s security, while getting GPL plugins from reliable resources is both allowed and safe for your website.
Are There Any Risks or Downsides?
Many haven’t seen a problem with using GPL plugins obtained outside the official channels, but there are some potential issues.
1. No Automatic Updates
Original developers’ plugins usually have updates that happen automatically. To install updates, you may have to manage everything manually which could get to be a hassle with GPL versions.
2. No Official Support
Unless you purchase through the developer, you won’t get any help through their support system. It can make things difficult if you aren’t comfortable using technology.
Find out how WPAddonBox makes sure users get trusted GPL access and frequent updates.
3. Potential for Malware (If Downloaded from Untrusted Sites)
Malicious software might be put onto your system by some third-party GPL websites. Because of this, you should select reputable sources when you use GPL.
The Role of GPL Marketplaces like WPAddonBox
Useful platforms like WPAddonBox make sure there is no difference between what you can and should use. They offer:
- Each plugin and theme offered here has the GPL license and is 100% legal.
- Get top-of-the-line tools and not worry about a large expense.
- Frequent manual updates made available in your account dashboard.
- When your software is zero malware, it only has original and unaltered data.
See our directory of top WordPress themes that are GPL-licensed.
Ethical Considerations: Should You Use GPL Plugins?
Following the law may not be the same as following what is ethically right. There are developers who don’t like users going around their paid pricing options. Regardless, a lot of developers pick the GPL because they agree that sharing and modifying the software is normal for users.
That said:
- If you are able to, buy directly from the developers. Money you spend will help support work on future updates and extra features.
- When you are starting out, you can try or test using GPL sites like WPAddonBox without spending much.
- Developers may use GPL software during their project and then purchase the original when handing it over to a client which is great for all involved.
Tips for Using GPL Plugins Safely
- Always get your themes and plugins by trusting your downloads to WordPress organizations and creators.
- Update the plugins you use to remain protected.
- Run plugins in a staging area first to be sure they work as they should, before using them on a live website.
- Pair GPL plugins with a strong security plugin such as Wordfence or Sucuri.
Final Thoughts: Use Legally, Use Responsibly
Using GPL WordPress plugins is allowed by law. The GPL encourages people to be free, to innovate and to join forces which matches the main values of WordPress.
As a beginner or someone on a budget, you can use WPAddonBox and other GPL marketplaces to get the tools for making powerful, secure and professional websites.
Browse the GPL WordPress plugins right away and use them legally and safely.
