We enable freedom of action for our worldwide community through a multilateral cross-license of patents in the Linux System, which ensures patent non-aggression in core Open Source Software technologies.
Member Benefits
Provide members a patent cross-license to over 3,700 core Linux and Open Source Software (OSS) packages in our Linux System definition which also protects these packages against PAEs & other patent attacks.
Leverage our relationships to collect and share prior art to help OIN community members defend themselves. We’ve assisted members with over 65 cases.
Unified Patents Open Source Zone challenged 50 Patents with excellent success. OIN, IBM, Microsoft & the Linux Foundation funded the zone 3 years ago & have since been joined by Meta & Mercedes-Benz.
Deliver royalty-free access to Linux System patents in a community that owns more than 2.8 million patents and applications in total.
Support key Open Source projects including Automotive Grade Linux (AGL) Hyperledger, Open Container Initiative (OCI), LF Networking Fund (Open Daylight, ONAP, OPNFV & others), LF Energy & Open Charge Alliance.
By enabling OSS, we advance the collective intelligence of a global community, promoting greater diversity of thought, perspective and talent.
Protect against & mitigate patent litigation risks for our members, as well as protect Open Source through patent collaboration.
Provide access to an exclusive OIN Community Member insignia & feature new members on our website under Recent Members.
Provide INSIDER — a bi-monthly eNewsletter that not only keep you informed about OIN & Open Source news around the world, but also features OIN member news.
OIN’s online sphere of influence reaches over 4,000 individuals & companies.
It’s easy & takes less than 10 minutes to join
Membership is FREE
Everyone signs the same agreement
You don’t have to hold patents in the Linux System
An ongoing time commitment is not required