OIN was created and exist to ensure a level playing field for Linux and Open Source Software (OSS), safeguarding developers, distributors and users from organizations that could leverage Intellectual Property (IP) to hinder their growth and innovation.
We accomplish this goal by cross-licensing patents within our community to clear patent risk in Open Source. We also act as a strategic guardian, employing defensive strategies to protect and assist community members that are under patent threat for their use of Open Source.
Linux System Definition
OIN facilitates the sharing of patent rights between thousands of OIN community members, and the coverage for sharing is called OIN’s “Linux System.”
The definition of the Linux System is published here.
Linux Overview
Linux is a free Operating System (OS) originally created by Linus Torvalds with the assistance of worldwide software programmers. Linux was developed under the GNU General Public License, which is a widely used, free software license that guarantees end users the freedom to run, study, share and modify software. The source code for Linux is free and available to everyone.
The most prevalent form of Open Source Software, Linux, touches people multiple times every day. It is a key ingredient for Internet Service Providers (ISPs) which host cloud and big data processing centers. According to Top 500, Linux powers the 500 fastest computers in the world. In fact, NASA, the NYSE, Pentagon, Federal Aviation Administration, Apple and many organizations run on Linux.
Daily uses also include Google, eCommerce, eReaders (e.g., Amazon Kindle), TV (e.g., TiVo, Roku), wearables (Smartwatches), smart cars, in-vehicle infotainment, games, social media, the medical devices, virtual assistants, Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies (e.g., Alexa) and even ATM networks.
OIN was created and exist to ensure a level playing field for Linux and Open Source Software (OSS), safeguarding developers, distributors and users from organizations that could leverage Intellectual Property (IP) to hinder their growth and innovation.
We accomplish this goal by cross-licensing patents within our community to clear patent risk in Open Source. We also act as a strategic guardian, employing defensive strategies to protect and assist community members that are under patent threat for their use of Open Source.
Linux System Definition
OIN facilitates the sharing of patent rights between thousands of OIN community members, and the coverage for sharing is called OIN’s “Linux System.”
The definition of the Linux System is published here.
Linux Overview
Linux is a free Operating System (OS) originally created by Linus Torvalds with the assistance of worldwide software programmers. Linux was developed under the GNU General Public License, which is a widely used, free software license that guarantees end users the freedom to run, study, share and modify software. The source code for Linux is free and available to everyone.
The most prevalent form of Open Source Software, Linux, touches people multiple times every day. It is a key ingredient for Internet Service Providers (ISPs) which host cloud and big data processing centers. According to Top 500, Linux powers the 500 fastest computers in the world. In fact, NASA, the NYSE, Pentagon, Federal Aviation Administration, Apple and many organizations run on Linux.
Daily uses also include Google, eCommerce, eReaders (e.g., Amazon Kindle), TV (e.g., TiVo, Roku), wearables (Smartwatches), smart cars, in-vehicle infotainment, games, social media, the medical devices, virtual assistants, Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies (e.g., Alexa) and even ATM networks.
Joining OIN is Simple.
Important Notice: OIN community members signed prior to January 27, 2026 are signed under the 1.0 License Agreement and will continue to receive coverage under Linux System Tables 0 – Table 12.
Community members will not be automatically updated to the new OIN 2.0 License Agreement. If you would like to upgrade your membership to include the Table 13 expansion – and all future table expansions – please fill out the new Membership form here to get started.
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