Use of GPL License in the WordPress Ecosystem

The GNU General Public License (GPL) plays a central role in how WordPress and its surrounding ecosystem function. At its core, the GPL is designed to protect user freedom, ensuring that software remains open, modifiable, and shareable. WordPress itself is released under the GPL, which means that themes and plugins interacting with WordPress inherit important licensing implications.

The most important principle of the GPL is freedom of use. Anyone can run GPL-licensed software for any purpose, study how it works, modify it to suit their needs, and redistribute original or modified versions. This legal framework encourages collaboration and innovation, allowing developers to build upon existing work instead of starting from scratch every time.

In the context of WordPress themes and plugins, the GPL enables developers and site owners to customize functionality without being locked into restrictive terms. PHP code that integrates with WordPress is considered a derivative work, which is why most serious WordPress products are fully GPL-compatible. Assets like images, CSS, and JavaScript may sometimes use split licensing, but the core functional logic remains governed by GPL principles.

Another benefit of the GPL is long-term sustainability. Because the license guarantees access to source code, projects are not dependent on a single vendor for updates or maintenance. Even if the original developer discontinues a product, the software can still be maintained, forked, or improved by the community. This reduces risk for businesses that rely heavily on WordPress for mission-critical websites.

There is also a common misconception that GPL software is “free” in terms of cost. In reality, GPL refers to freedom, not price. Developers are allowed to sell GPL-licensed software, charge for support, updates, or services, and build commercial businesses around it. The key requirement is that end users retain their rights under the license.

For WordPress users, understanding the GPL license helps in making informed decisions about themes and plugins. It clarifies what can be modified, redistributed, or reused across projects and ensures compliance with open-source standards. As WordPress continues to grow, the GPL remains a foundational element that supports openness, flexibility, and long-term trust in the platform.