nip/docs/nexusos_licensing.md

NexusOS Licensing Architecture

NexusOS operates under a clear, three-tier licensing model designed to ensure the longevity of the core while fostering a vibrant ecosystem.

1. Core Logic: SSS v1.0

Protected Stewardship. The kernel (Rumk), build toolkit (nexus), and package manager core (nip) are licensed under the Self Sovereign Society License (SSS v1.0).

• Goal: Prevents proprietary forks of the core infrastructure. Ensures the "Constitution" of the OS remains intact.
• Copyleft: Modifications to SSS-licensed files must be shared back.
• Commercial Use: Allowed, provided the core remains open.

2. Extensions & Glue: Apache 2.0

Pragmatic Integration. Drivers, adapters, and glue code (especially Zig C-interop layers) are licensed under Apache 2.0.

• Goal: Maximizes compatibility with existing hardware and software ecosystems.
• Flexibility: Can be mixed with proprietary drivers if absolutely necessary (though discouraged).

3. Community Content: CC0 (Public Domain)

Unrestricted Knowledge. Documentation, recipes, and logic-less configs are CC0.

• Goal: Frictionless sharing of knowledge. No attribution bureaucracy for using a recipe or learning from docs.

Summary

Component	License	Why?
Rumk / Nexus Core	SSS v1.0	Protect the foundation.
Drivers / Glue	Apache 2.0	Maximum hardware support.
Docs / Recipes	CC0	Free exchange of ideas.

We have removed the ACUL (Artificial Consciousness Usage License) to streamline adoption.