Re: [GNU-linux-libre] Freedom issues with non-free firmware in external files

[Karl Goetz]

On Fri, 14 Aug 2009 19:59:00 +0200
Rubén Rodríguez Pérez <address@hidden> wrote:

> El vie, 14-08-2009 a las 14:15 -0300, Diego Saravia escribió:

> > > -Should GPL modules that are useless without the non-free
> > > firmware files be removed?
> > 
> > why?
> 
> (From now on, this is _my_ personal opinion)
> 
> If a driver needs a non-free firmware file to work, removing it
> renders the driver useless, so you can remove it. Having non working
> drivers looks pointless to me, and can -maybe in a subtle way- cause
> harm.

In order of preference, I'd go with:

 - Modify driver to print a warning.
 - Modify driver to print a warning (disable loading files)
 - Disable driver at compile time.
 - Remove driver (source) completely.

> > > -Should they be kept, but disabling the file load call?
> > 
> > what if someone develops a free file replacement?
> 
> Then the maintainer of the freed version of the kernel can stop
> removing that module.

This would be easier if it was compiled out then if it was rm'd out.
kk

-- 
Karl Goetz, (Kamping_Kaiser / VK5FOSS)
Debian contributor / gNewSense Maintainer
http://www.kgoetz.id.au
No, I won't join your social networking group

signature.asc
Description: PGP signature