Many individuals find it inspiring to know that they can develop software with people from around the world who are passionate about it. Sadly, they repeatedly make the same mistakes. The mistake is not licensing their code, and then they expect others to contribute. This post explains how and why software should be licensed. Now let's get started.

What is licensing a repository?

In order to allow others to modify or distribute open-source software, the repository where the software resides should contain the license file (which provides rights to modify or distribute).

Thus, others (who forked the repository) can edit, distribute the software contained in the repository. By using open-source software, we avoid reinventing the wheel

Why You Should Add a License to Your Repository

Each source code repository must include a license. It should be protected since it is your creation. Despite being protected by copyright, the original creations must be used according to their license.

In the future, you may need to include some special terms in your software. A software license describes how to use, modify, and distribute the software.

What if I do not include a license in my repository?

There will be legal uncertainty if a license is not added to your repository. Potential customers may not understand if they have permission to use your software, resulting in them refusing to purchase it. Additionally, some users may be under the impression that you do not have a legal agreement for the product, so they can do whatever they want with it.

It is unclear if "All Rights Reserved" will have any legal effect in any jurisdiction if you do not add a license to your new project on GitHub. To avoid future issues, pick a license that meets your needs and add it to your repository.

How to Add A License for Your Open Source Projects

It's easy to license your projects. In the root directory of your repository, you must place a LICENSE, LICENSE.txt, or LICENSE.md file.

To make it easier, GitHub offers these features:

• Open the GitHub repository in a browser.

• Click on the Create new file in the root directory.

• Type "LICENSE" as the filename.

• Press the Choose a license template button.

• Choose an appropriate license

• After selecting a license, click Review and Submit

• Click Commit

I recommend you take a look at this website if you have any doubts regarding which license is best for your project.

Hopefully, you now know how to license your repository. Do comment your favorite open source license in the comments below

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