Is this acceptable?

[pevans_om]

In our country we have a major lack of bandwidth. So I am wanting to start a service to allow people to select from a bunch of free software, demos, patches, mods, drivers, opensource and linux distros. They can select whatever they want, which is then burnt onto a dvd and posted to them. They are charged for the DVD.

So, is this acceptable?
Would it be okay to charge for a dvd like this, since we're essentially charging for the service of downloading the files on behalf of the person?

Some community input would be appreciated.

[Lord Illidan]

Since it is free software, I don't see any problems with it. As for charging for the expenses, the same thing applies.

[Scruffynerf]

Should be. There are several websites/organisations that "Sell" free software CD & DVD's. Essentially the cost is minimal, as the organisations are essentially only charging for the CD/DVD disc, and postage.

However, AFAIK, these places only provide media for linux distro images, not compilations of software, so you may have a nice little niche market there to gain reputation from.

[Tomosaur]

Yes, it's perfectly acceptable :)

However - you should make sure that each piece of software you're distributing allows this. If the software uses the GPL licence, then there should be no problems, but not all open-source software DOES use the GPL.

[DoctorMO]

It's pretty much good to go apart from you not being permitted to distribute the proprietary sections.

Aside: if the terms of a license stop commercial use or distribution then it's considered non-free.

[pevans_om]

Aside: if the terms of a license stop commercial use or distribution then it's considered non-free.

I guess there are some circumstances where we may have to ask permission from the developers.

[curuxz]

sounds like your making an online version of shuttleworths freedom toaster! :D

Good idea if you think people need it where you are :)

[Amazona aestiva]

Helpful... I like it!