Legal Programs

The Linux Foundation's Legal Programs provide a neutral place for the legal community to collaborate and protect the Linux platform. We also work closely with our members and the community on initiatives to ensure Linux is protected.

Key Linux Protection Activities Include:

• Hosting and sponsoring key kernel developers, like Linux creator Linus Torvalds, so they can maintain independence while working full time to improve Linux
• Managing the Linux Trademark
• Sponsoring other Fellowships for much needed services not currently met by the Linux community or industry, such as kernel documentation
• Sponsoring a Community Developer Travel Fund for travel related expenses not paid for by companies or individuals
• Running the NDA Program where the Linux Foundation facilitates the sharing of technical information between proprietary companies and open source developers
• Holding open source Legal Summits where members and other community members can collaborate on solving legal issues facing Linux and open source
• Fostering industry-wide legal partnering:
  • Open Source as Prior Art (OSAPA) to reduce and challenge frivolous software patents
  • Sponsoring and funding incorporation of kernel.org
  • Running the Linux Legal Defense Fund to defend against lawsuits such as SCO's
  • Hosting the Patent Commons Project where companies can assign patents used by open source projects