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Licensing

Last updated: 9 March 2026

Overview

Envault is licensed under the Functional Source License (FSL), Version 1.1-MIT. This source-available license allows you to read, audit, and self-host the code while protecting our ability to offer competing commercial services.

After 24 months from each release date, the code automatically converts to the permissive MIT License, giving you complete freedom.

What is FSL?

The Functional Source License (FSL) is a source-available license that bridges open source and proprietary software. It allows anyone to:

  • Read and review the source code for security auditing
  • Deploy and self-host for internal, non-commercial use
  • Modify the code for your own internal purposes
  • Learn from and contribute to the codebase

Unlike traditional open-source licenses, FSL restricts commercial competitors from offering Envault as a service without permission.

What You Can Do

Self-Host

Deploy Envault on your own infrastructure for your team's use.

Audit for Security

Review the source code, conduct security audits, and verify encryption implementations.

Internal Use

Use Envault for your organization's internal secret management needs.

Modify for Your Needs

Customize the code to integrate with your specific systems and workflows.

Use the CLI

Freely use and distribute the Envault CLI with your applications.

What You Cannot Do

Offer as a Competing Commercial Service

You cannot use Envault's code to offer a competing SaaS, managed service, or commercial product that competes directly with Envault.

Remove License Headers

You cannot remove or alter copyright notices, license text, or proprietary markings.

Sublicense or Redistribute

You cannot sublicense, transfer, or commercialize the Licensed Work to third parties.

Use Commercially (Pre-Conversion)

Before the 24-month conversion date, you cannot use Envault's code for any commercial competing service.

MIT License Conversion (24-Month Window)

Envault's source code is not permanently proprietary. Each version automatically converts to the fully permissive MIT License after 24 months from its release date.

Timeline Example

  • March 9, 2026: Version 1.0 released under FSL
  • March 9, 2028: Version 1.0 converts to MIT automatically
  • After conversion: You can use it for any purpose, including commercial competing services

This conversion is automatic-you don't need to do anything. We believe in the long-term openness of Envault while protecting it during its initial growth phase.

Self-Hosting & Internal Use

You are explicitly welcome and encouraged to self-host Envault for your organization. Self-hosting is one of the core use cases FSL enables.

Permitted Self-Hosting Scenarios

  • Internal company use: Deploy Envault to manage secrets across teams
  • Client services (non-competing): Use Envault as part of your consulting or implementation services to end clients
  • Internal business tools: Integrate Envault into your infrastructure
  • Custom deployments: Deploy for specific organizational needs

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Envault for my SaaS product?

If your product directly competes with Envault's secret management service, you cannot use Envault's code under FSL. If your SaaS uses Envault internally or as a component of a non-competing service, you may need a commercial license. Contact us at dashdinanath056@gmail.com to discuss licensing options.

When does my version convert to MIT?

Each released version converts to MIT automatically 24 months after its release date. The conversion happens retroactively, so you can use older versions under MIT terms after the conversion date passes.

Can I modify Envault for my internal use?

Yes, absolutely. You can fork, modify, and customize Envault for your internal needs. You cannot redistribute your modified version as a commercial service, but using it internally is fully allowed.

What if I want to offer Envault as a service?

We offer commercial licenses for partners who want to embed or offer Envault. Please contact us at dashdinanath056@gmail.com to discuss partnership and commercial licensing opportunities.

Can I audit the code for security?

Yes, security auditing is explicitly encouraged. We believe in the security-through-publicity model, and you're welcome to review the code, run security scans, and report vulnerabilities. Please responsibly disclose any security issues to our team.

Is FSL "open source"?

FSL is source-available, not "open source" as defined by the Open Source Initiative. The source is public and you have significant rights, but commercial restrictions apply. After the 24-month conversion, it becomes fully open source (MIT).

Can I contribute to Envault?

We welcome community contributions, suggestions, and feedback. Please reach out to us for collaboration opportunities. Note that contributions will be licensed under the FSL.

Where can I find the full license?

The complete FSL text is available in the LICENSE file in the project root and on GitHub.

Questions About Licensing?

If you have specific questions about licensing, commercial arrangements, or need clarification on what you can use Envault for, please don't hesitate to reach out.

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