PSVL stands for Proprietary Source-Visible License. This license version 1.0 provides a legal framework for developers who want to share their code while maintaining strict ownership rights. It includes over 276 clauses to cover various legal scenarios. You use this template to define how others view, use, and modify your software.
Software protection matters for creators. You build a product, add features, and refine the design. You want people to use that work under specific terms. Traditional licenses often fail to protect indie developers or startups from unauthorized use. PSVL solves this by acting as an alternative to common agreements.
This license ensures your project remains source-visible. This means users see how your app works under the hood. However, they must follow rules regarding commercial use, attribution, and AI training. The document covers intellectual property, copyright, and distribution rights in detail.
You need a Windows computer to use this license package. The tools require basic system health:
- Operating System: Windows 10 or Windows 11.
- Memory: 4 GB of RAM.
- Storage: At least 100 MB of free space.
- Display: 1280x720 resolution or higher.
The software functions correctly on standard desktop setups. You do not need developer tools or complex command-line knowledge.
Visit the official release page to obtain the current version of the PSVL template. Follow these steps to download the documents for your project.
- Navigate to the PSVL Release Page.
- Locate the most recent release at the top of the list.
- Click the link that ends in .zip or .txt to save the files to your computer.
- Extract the contents if you downloaded a compressed folder.
You now own a local copy of the license template. Read the text files provided in the folder to understand the specific clauses included in this version.
Once you download the files, integrate them into your software repository. A license document serves no purpose if it stays in a separate folder on your desktop. Move the license text file into the root directory of your project software. Rename the file to LICENSE.txt.
When you distribute your software, include this file in the main folder. Users who download your app find this document and read the terms. This action confirms that the user accepts your copyright and property protections.
The license includes several protections for software creators.
- Anti-AI Training: Clauses prevent your code from entering datasets for machine learning models without your consent.
- Intellectual Property Protection: Rights remain with the author. Users agree to these boundaries when they access your source files.
- Code Protection: You minimize the risk of unauthorized copying or reverse engineering based on the specific clauses you choose to highlight.
- Startup Ready: The license structure supports business growth. Scale your project without fear of losing your legal grip on your assets.
Maintain your project records with care. If you edit the core code, ensure the license terms still apply to new features. You may need to review the clauses every few months as your project grows. If you find a legal term that no longer fits your business model, update the document using your preferred text editor.
Keep a copy of your signed agreements or project history in a secure location. If you publish code to public servers, the PSVL file acts as your main barrier against misuse.
What counts as source-visible? Source-visible means users can view your code. It differs from open source because you set the restrictions. You retain ownership.
Does this work for all project types? Yes. It works for websites, mobile apps, and desktop tools. The language applies to most software architectures.
Do I need a lawyer to understand this? The license uses detailed language to protect your rights, but it follows standard legal patterns. You read the clauses to understand the scope of your protection. If you have specific concerns about your industry, consult a legal professional.
Can I change the clauses? You edit the template to suit your needs. Remove clauses that do not apply to your project or add specific requirements for your users.
How do I update the license in my app? If you release a new version of your software, include the latest version of your edited PSVL file in the download package. Replace the old file to ensure users see the current terms.
The PSVL repository covers many areas of software law. These topics help you organize your project goals:
- Anti-AI training sets.
- Contributor License Agreements.
- Copyright management for indie devs.
- IP protection strategies.
- Open source alternatives.
- Proprietary software management.
- Startup legal workflows.
If you encounter issues during download or file management, verify your internet connection. Check that your PDF or text reader opens files normally. If the files appear garbled, try a different text editor like Notepad.
If you cannot find the download button, check the top of the GitHub page. There is a section labeled "Releases" on the right side. Clicking that brings you to the file list. Ensure your antivirus software does not block the download of the license package. Some settings flags zip files, but this repository contains plain text documents and is safe to use.
You possess the tools to protect your intellectual property. Use the PSVL template to set boundaries for your users. Good documentation keeps your project safe and allows your business to thrive. Follow these steps, keep the license in your main folder, and update it as your software version changes. You now own the legal framework for your future releases.